Statement of Imagine Schools on Missouri State Board of Education Decision

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*** NEWS STATEMENT ***

ST. LOUIS, MO (April 17, 2012) Jason Bryant, Executive Vice President of Imagine Schools, today issued the following statement in response to the state board decision:

 “Imagine is extremely disappointed by today’s ruling.  This decision has been made without providing us any opportunity to show the progress made on these campuses since last fall. Further, we had expected at least to meet with state officials to present the schools’ progress and work together to achieve a path forward that is in the best interest of students and their families.  The voices of over 2,500 St. Louis families who have chosen Imagine charter schools have been ignored.

Imagine Schools has worked in close partnership with the governing boards to implement the necessary steps detailed in the school improvement plans.  We are very proud of our students’ accomplishments, and we want to continue to foster their progress. Two schools, Imagine Environmental Science and Math and Imagine College Prep High School, are performing well and are not under academic probation.  For the past two years, 100% of the Imagine College Prep’s graduating seniors were accepted to institutions of higher education, and the upcoming class is nearing that same achievement. Together, members of the Class of 2012 have been awarded approximately $550,000 in financial aid.  Two campuses, Imagine Careers Elementary and Middle, have made significant progress meeting their school improvement plans and are prepared for review.

Given the significance of this decision, the 3,500 Imagine students and their families deserve a fair and transparent process, which was not afforded them today by this abrupt decision.  In the days ahead, we will consult with the governing boards and consider all options that best serve the interests of the students and their families.”

 

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Imagine Schools is a national operator of 75 public charter schools in 12 states and the District of Columbia.  In partnership with local governing boards, Imagine Schools educates 3,500 students in grades K-12 on six public charter campuses in St. Louis, MO. Imagine Schools partners with parents and guardians in the education of their children by providing high quality schools that prepare students for lives of leadership, accomplishment, and exemplary character.


*For Immediate Release*
Contact: Mary Ellen Cummings
314-241-3050
[email protected]