School Choice 2024-2025

Which schools in Monroe City Schools are eligible for school choice transfers?

Barkdull Faulk Elementary
Berg Jones Elementary
Carroll Junior High School
Carver Elementary
Clara Hall Accelerated School
Madison James Foster Elementary
Martin Luther King, Jr. Junior High School
Minnie Ruffin Elementary
Roy Neal Shelling, Sr. Elementary
Thomas Jefferson Upper Elementary

Why were these schools identified as “schools in need of improvement” and how do they compare to other schools in Monroe City Schools and other schools in Louisiana?

According to Louisiana State guidelines, the identified schools were deemed “academically unacceptable” with a letter grade of D or F. This letter grade is based on the school data from the 2022-2023 school year.

What are the schools doing to address the issue of achievement, and what are the school system and the Louisiana State Department of Education doing to help them address the problem?

The school system administration (school site and district staff), supported by outside experts, will evaluate all areas of instruction at the identified schools. This evaluation will include observations and interviews, as well as analysis of relevant student performance data. The information obtained will be used to prepare School Improvement Plans. The plans will require classroom instruction and teacher training to focus on improving the areas in which students are having difficulty. The school will implement best practice reading, writing, and math strategies, tutorial programs, and technology-assisted instruction. Consultants will work along with the administration and staff to identify the most effective instructional practices for the diverse student population that attend the schools in need of improvement. The State Department of Education will be helping to address academic issues through additional funding and technical assistance through Federal and School Redesign funding sources. Additional assistance includes:

In-school reinforcement of skills/tutoring
Staffing with highly-qualified teachers and paraprofessionals
Effective professional development programs for all instructional staff based on evidence-based best practices targeting student engagement and academic success
Additional support through professional school counselors, content leader teachers, state and district support personnel
School-based content-specific tutors provided during the school day for students identified with weaknesses in math and ELA
One-to-one computer access
Summer acceleration and programs
Computer-based assessments in core subjects
Wide selection of elective courses including Band, Choir, Orchestra, and Talented Art
Clubs and organizations such as Jr. Beta and Student Council
Positive Behavior Intervention Supports (PBIS) initiatives
Community partnerships with various organizations and groups

How can I become involved in addressing the issues that caused the schools to be identified as a school in need of improvement?

Families are encouraged to arrange a private conference with their child’s teachers to discuss ways to improve academic performance. Families are also invited to participate as members of the School Improvement Team at their schools. The School Improvement Team is a group made up of the principal, assistant principal, teachers and parents that work to improve the education and overall learning experience for all students. Even if a family member does not serve as a member of the School Improvement Team, he or she may attend meetings of the team to discuss possible changes in any area of instruction to improve the school.

Do I have to transfer my child to another school?

No. We are providing families with this opportunity as an option. The decision is entirely up to you, so you should base your decision on what you think is best for your child. If you choose to have your child attend school at his/her home school, continue with the registration process as required. If you do choose to transfer your child, he or she must remain at the receiving school for the full school year.

Is my child guaranteed a place at JS Clark Magnet School or Neville Junior High School?

Every effort will be made to honor parents’ requests for transfer. However, students will be granted enrollment at the receiving school based upon enrollment limits, individual achievement scores, and income levels as prescribed by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

How will my child get to a receiving school?

If your transfer application is approved, your child will have free transportation to JS Clark Magnet School or Neville Jr. High School. Transportation will be provided by the Monroe City School Board. Specific bus information will be available at the District Office by Tuesday, August 9, 2024. Should your child become ill and need to go home early, parents must provide transportation home. Transportation will not be provided for your child to attend activities before or after school such as extracurricular activities or for parents to attend parent meetings and evening programs. *Please note: Depending on residence, bus pickup could be as early as 6:30 a.m. Return home could be as late as 4:00 p.m.

If my child transfers to JS Clark for elementary school or Neville Jr. High School, will he/she have choice for the next grade band school?

No. School Choice transfers do not extend beyond the grade levels served by the receiving school. Currently, no Monroe City high schools are eligible for school choice.

What is the deadline for applying for transfer?

If you decide you want to send your child to JS Clark Magnet School or Neville Jr. High School, the Choice Request Form must be returned to the Superintendent’s Office by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, April 12, 2024. If we do not receive the Choice Request Form from you by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, April 12, 2024, your child will remain at his/her home school. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

When will you tell me if my transfer application is approved?

Parents will receive an official notification by Friday, May 10, 2024, informing them if their transfer application is approved.

Who should I contact if I have additional questions?

Parents with additional questions should reach out to Dr. Cassie Owens, Director of Testing and Accountability, at 318-325-0601.