Parent urges board to revisit advanced-course access matrix, says parents and students lack choice

A Southeast Polk parent told the board on Oct. 16 he wants the district to open dialogue with parents and staff about how students gain access to advanced courses at the middle- and junior-high levels.

"The matrix that is being utilized by both middle school and junior high to grant access to advanced courses does not take into account a holistic approach," Eric Morrow said during public comment. "The matrix has removed parents and student choice from their educational pathway." Morrow said parents and staff have raised concerns for nearly two years and asked the board to schedule a parent-advisory meeting with staff who have direct knowledge of the matrix.

Why it matters: Access to advanced coursework in middle and junior high can shape students' high-school pathways. Morrow said the district had previously agreed to an update this year that was not implemented and urged the board to create a forum where parents and staff can discuss the pathway without fear of retaliation.

Board response: The board acknowledged Morrow's request; no formal action was taken during the meeting. Dr. Joella Latham said junior-high and high-school building presentations scheduled for December will include more detailed data about pathways and access. The administration did not announce a date for a parent-advisory meeting on the matrix during the Oct. 16 meeting.

Ending: Morrow asked the board to facilitate an "in-depth conversation" and to include staff with insight into the matrix. The board did not set a follow-up date during the session.