School Choice in Elko County has Expanded
The data is in, and once again the National Assessment of Educational Progress concludes that the American education system continues to academically fail most students, and classroom behavior is at an all-time low. Reading proficiency across the US averages 30% which means that 70% of 4th and 8th graders tested are not proficient readers. Math isn’t any brighter, only 39% of 4th graders and 28% of eighth graders are proficient. The number of educational gaps associated with this student population is staggering; and the most disturbing aspect is that this is not a new trend. Proficiency rates for American students have been declining since the early 1990’s. What can be done to reverse this alarming decline? There is no easy answer, but clearly the status quo is not serving most students in the United States.
Across the country, charter schools are opening at an unprecedented rate to bravely begin the hard and tedious work associated with filling educational and behavioral gaps to drive student achievement. The power of independent charter schools is that they are flexible, agile, and able to meet the needs of their students and families with laser-like focus, rather than being part of conglomerate systems.
Families in Elko County have the privilege of school choice and the ability to seek out the best schooling option for their students. There are now two free-public charter schools open in Elko. Elko Institute for Academic Achievement (EIAA) opened in 2009 and serves students K – 8th grade. Nevada Classical Academy Elko (NCAE) is the new charter school, currently serving kindergarten through 3rd grade, with the addition of a grade each year. For both schools’ students must apply as there are limited seats available. EIAA has a waitlist, but NCAE currently has open seats in all grades.
School choice is a powerful tool for families. Being able to select the best school for their students and family situation is both an incredible opportunity and a crucial responsibility for parents. Elko County wants the best for their youth, as evidenced by the broad support for two free, public charter schools. If you are curious about the options in Elko County, contact one, or both, charter schools and arrange a tour.
