Another Emerson parent suggested keeping Valley Oak open and shifting North Davis students to other elementary schools like Valley Oak, Willitt, Patwin, Cesar Chavez and using North Davis for ninth graders and DaVinci students. All the ideas have not had time to come forward. I met with several Emerson teachers and staff last week. One teacher who has been there for decades said that Emerson is currently the best that it has ever been. They also affirmed that the structure is not in such shape that it warrants closing the school.
My greatest concern is that 1000 students at two Jr Highs is too many to provide quality education and safe, supportive climate. This is evidence by the fact that Emerson had the highest STAR test scores this past year of the three jr highs. Could it be because the kids are smarter at Emerson or it has better teachers? I don't think so. I believe it's the fact that there were only 520 students and a positive climate and supportive culture enhanced by a student leadership program and peer helpers. I've heard of two possible lawsuits against the district due to bullying and harassment at Harper. These tragic experiences and the resulting cost to the district could easily increase with more students at the two Jr. Highs.
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