The Board of Education met yesterday [September 12] and, among other items, discussed the recently released SAT scores, a report on the opening of school, and updates on Extended Learning Opportunities and the Title I Enrollment Option. The Board also approved the appointment of a community superintendent and approved the school system’s observance of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Update on SAT Scores

The Board discussed recent SAT results that show an increase in the systemwide average score, but also continue to show a gap in achievement by race and ethnicity.

Report on the Opening of School

The successful opening of school was illustrated through a presentation to the Board by staff and community members from schools in the Wheaton Cluster and from reports by executive staff members.

Update on Extended Learning Opportunities

The Board reviewed an update on the first summer implementation of the Extended Learning Opportunities Program. The program provided students entering kindergarten through third grade in 18 Title I schools with a curriculum in reading, writing and mathematics to provide a head start on learning for the upcoming school year.

Update on Title I Enrollment Option

The Board reviewed an update on the implementation of the Title I Enrollment Option mandated through the No Child Left Behind Act. In Montgomery County, the option provides an opportunity for students in 10 Title I schools with declining test scores to enroll in a paired higher-achieving school.

Administrative Appointment

The Board appointed the following administrator:

§Cynthia Rattley, currently acting community superintendent for the Northwest, Poolesville, Quince Orchard, and Seneca Valley clusters, Office of School Performance, as the community superintendent.

Hispanic Heritage Month

The Board approved the observance of Hispanic Heritage Month in Montgomery County Public Schools from September 15 to October 15, 2002, recognizing the many ways Hispanic Americans continue to enrich the culture and traditions of the United States and contribute to the present and future success of Montgomery County and the State of Maryland.

Board of Education: Mr. Reginald M. Felton, president; Mrs. Patricia B. O’Neill, vice president. Members: Mr. Steve Abrams, Mr. Kermit V. Burnett, Ms. Sharon W. Cox, Mrs. Nancy J. King, Mr. Walter N. Lange, and Mr. Mihyar Alnifaidy, student member. Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent and secretary treasurer. Office of the Board: 301-279-3617.