“The test scores released today give our community reasons to be both optimistic and reflective. Frankly, our students in this City deserve our undivided attention every single day. It is critical that we all remain engaged in the educational achievement of our young people. Education touches every facet of this City and test scores reflect only one aspect of student achievement and the state of education. I am committed to doing all that I can to help every student in Kansas City, regardless of the school district in which they reside, receive a high-quality education. Education was a game-changer in my life so this conversation is personal for me.
Furthermore, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s decision earlier this week to collaborate with Cities for Education Entrepreneurship Trust shows that education professionals recognize the utility of city-based education systems. Since taking office, I have shared with many audiences my opinion that cities are increasingly becoming the focal point of innovation and problem-solving. Therefore, it makes complete sense to explore a city-based approach to addressing our educational challenges.”
