State Report Cards Issued for Schools

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - In the world of Memphis city and Shelby County schools there's always been a middle ground of gray that separates the two academically. Tuesday's announcement of the 2009 Tennessee Report Cards for state schools followed in that tradition.

Dr. Kriner Cash says, "The report card today shows that Memphis City Schools has some of the lowest grades in the state."

John Aitken says, "Once again our system has been recognized as one of Tennessee's top performing systems."

On one side Shelby County, smiles on their faces coupled with an achievement report card showing straight A's make for a proud display of success.

Aitken says, "Quite a compliment and testimony of the good things that are happening in Shelby County Schools."

The card grades school districts on reading, math, science and social studies.

With stricter guidelines Shelby County says they're one of only 12 school systems in the state who made all A's.

David Pickler says, "You have once again shown that Shelby County Schools is a leader not only in the state of Tennessee but nationally."

On the other side of this state issued evaluation, Memphis City Schools whose report card was far from top of the class.

Dr. Cash says, "There scores don't reflect there learning these scores reflect a recalibrated report card."

The achievement report card for the city district two D's and 2 F's, but to put things in perspective this year the state changed the grading scale used. Last year what would have been an A, this year would now be considered a B or a C. Dr. Cash though making no excuses.

Dr. Cash says, "We know that this is not where we want to be but its where we now need to start it needs to be clear and hopefully its a wake up call to everyone."

There are actually two report cards issued. The other called a Value Added Report which basically compares the schools within a district with each other and their progress. Shelby County received 2 B's and 2 C's while Memphis city received 3 C's and a D.