Columbus Monthly / May 2011 / Schools

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Schools

Even as they grapple with funding issues, 14 area school districts were rated “excellent” on the Ohio Department of Education’s report card.

In states all across the country, public school districts are finding it hard to make ends meet—and Ohio is no exception.

Many districts in Central Ohio and beyond are facing steep funding cuts. When newly elected Gov. John Kasich released his two-year budget in March, it revealed that aid for primary and secondary education would be cut 12.1 percent next year and another 7.6 percent in 2013. The cuts are due in part to a loss of federal stimulus money, which contributed $457 million to schools this year. In addition, Ohio school districts will lose around $590 million because the budget calls for speeding up the phase-out of reimbursements school districts have been receiving as a result of a repeal of the tax on businesses’ inventory, equipment and utilities.

Even before these cuts, districts throughout the state were struggling to deal with school funding. Many districts, including more affluent ones, have had to implement changes such as cutting extracurricular activities at high schools because they did not have enough funds to pay for everything. To cope, some districts recently have increased participation fees for extracurricular activities to as high as $500 per activity for each student participant; some districts have negotiated pay freezes with employees, including teachers, while others have cut the number of teachers and non-teaching staff members. School boards have been frank that such cuts are necessary to try to get voters to approve levies.

Compounding the financial distress of many public school systems is the emergence of charter schools and an expanded voucher system in Ohio. Both are options for parents who are dissatisfied with their children’s public schools. Since the inception of charter schools in 1998, the numbers have jumped from 15 schools and 2,245 students to 368 schools and 114,554 students this year, according to the Center for Education Reform. Funding has risen from $11 million in 1998 to well over the current state funding level of about $550 million. Ohio’s voucher system, meanwhile, gives students in certain struggling schools money—via vouchers—to attend private schools. There were about 13,000 students in Ohio who applied last year to attend a private school through the voucher program. And changes are on the way: Kasich’s budget calls for increasing the number of vouchers available to 28,000, and it removes the ceiling on the number of charter schools allowed to operate in Ohio.

Nineteen public school districts in Central Ohio are profiled here. Each district provided the statistical information, as current as possible, with the exception of three items: “Expenditure per pupil,” provided by the Ohio Department of Education, is from fiscal year 2010 figures; “median income” refers to the median Ohio adjusted gross income, taken from 2009 figures courtesy of the Ohio Department of Taxation, and “standards met on report card” refers to data on the 2009-’10 Ohio Department of Education state report card, which sets minimum requirements in 26 areas. Most of the areas focus on achievement test passage rates in the third through eighth grades as well as the 10th- and 11th-grade graduation tests, graduation rates and attendance rates.

The report card rates districts as excellent (meeting 94 to 100 percent of the 26 state indicators or scoring a 100 or above on the Performance Index), effective (meeting 75 to 93.9 percent of the indicators or scoring a 90 to 99.9 percent on the PI), continuous improvement (meeting 50 to 74.9 percent of the indicators or scoring an 80 to 89.9 percent and missing Adequate Yearly Progress; or meeting 0 to 74.9 percent of indicators or scoring a 0 to 89.9 percent on the PI and meeting Adequate Yearly Progress), academic watch (meeting 31 to 49.4 percent of the standards or scoring 70 to 79.9 percent and missing Adequate Yearly Progress) or academic emergency (meeting 30.9 percent or fewer of the indicators, scoring less than 70 percent and missing Adequate Yearly Progress). Districts rated as excellent also can be rated excellent with distinction for showing above-expected growth for at least two consecutive years.

Pupil-to-teacher ratios have been rounded to the nearest whole numbers. Statistical information on every school district in the state is available at the Ohio Department of Education’s website, ode.state.oh.us.

Columbus City Schools

270 E. State St., 365-5000

Columbus City Schools offers families strong neighborhood schools and schools of choice in safe, secure learning environments. The district features 118 schools embracing innovative practices that focus on high-quality curricula and academic success. State-of-the-art learning spaces are bolstered by upgrades to technology, science labs and security systems, including 34 new or fully renovated buildings, with 11 others in design or under construction.

The district’s commitment to academic performance has earned it a “continuous improvement” grade on the state report card the past four years. The graduation rate has increased by more than 21 percent since 2001, and 12 high schools were recognized by U.S. News & World Report as among America’s best.

Cutting-edge programs allow students to focus on interests such as language immersion, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), arts and international studies. In fall 2010, the district opened two single-gender middle schools, an expanded K-8 international studies program and a new International High School for world culture and language studies. Free breakfast is available to all students. The district engages every child by offering facilities and support for students facing physical and emotional challenges, as well as language and cultural barriers.

Columbus City Schools works closely with partners in higher education, the community and businesses to offer students unparalleled opportunities. Advanced Placement (AP) courses and partnerships with Ohio State University, Kenyon College, DeVry, Hocking Community College and Columbus State Community College, among others, give high school students the opportunity to earn free college credit while pursuing their high school diplomas through offerings such as the Seniors-to-Sophomores program. The globally recognized baccalaureate program is preparing students for higher education opportunities worldwide.

Superintendent: Gene T. Harris, Ph.D.

Schools: 64 elementary, 19 middle, 19 high, five K-6, four K-8, one K-12, two career centers, four special-needs schools

Enrollment: 51,191

Median income: $26,772

Pupil/teacher ratio: 23:1 in K-3; 28:1 in 4-12

Expenditure per pupil: $14,904

Average teacher salary: $64,724

Standards met on report card: 5 of 26

Bexley City Schools

348 S. Cassingham Rd., 231-7611

At the center of a stable, close-knit community, Bexley’s neighborhood schools have earned the Ohio Department of Education’s “excellent with distinction” rating for 10 consecutive years. Both Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report recognize Bexley High School as one of the top public high schools in the country. The class of 2010 had a college matriculation rate of 98 percent, with 88 percent attending four-year schools and 10 percent attending two-year schools.

The Bexley school system is among the 2 percent of Ohio school districts offering foreign language instruction in the elementary grades. Certified professionals teach visual and performing arts throughout Bexley’s entire K-12 curriculum, and Bexley Middle School is Ohio’s only authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Program. Cassingham Elementary became Ohio’s first IB Primary Years Program in 2007.

Students benefit from class sizes that permit personal attention and foster academic excellence; they also enjoy a wide variety of courses—including 19 AP classes at the high school level—and extracurricular options.

A high level of community involvement characterizes the Bexley school system, which receives considerable support from the Bexley Education Foundation, a nonprofit that funds school programs for which tax dollars are not available. Financial ratings institutions praise Bexley’s sound financial operations, solid voter history and conservative fiscal management.

Superintendent: Michael L. Johnson

Schools: Three elementary, one middle, one high

Enrollment: 2,107

Median income: $58,020

Pupil/teacher ratio: 16:1

Expenditure per pupil: $14,785

Average teacher salary: $75,721

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26

Big Walnut Local Schools

70 Walnut St., Galena, (740) 965-2706

Big Walnut Local is a small suburban/rural district located northeast of Columbus in southern Delaware County. It provides instruction for children who live in the villages of Sunbury and Galena and parts of Porter, Kingston, Trenton, Harlem, Genoa and Berkshire townships. Delaware County is the fastest growing county in Ohio and has experienced explosive growth over the last 10 years. The school district continues to receive steady growth, and although it hasn’t seen significant increases from year to year, the schools are committed to preparing for the future.

The district has a rich heritage of strong community support and participation in school activities. Recently, voters passed a bond issue to build a new elementary school that opened in 2010; a new middle school is under construction and will open in August 2011. The district recently completed an addition to the high school and renovations to the library and other school facilities. It also purchased land and a building that will serve as a bus and maintenance facility. With cost-per-pupil expenditures below the state average, an Aa3 bond rating and one of the lowest tax rates in Delaware and Franklin counties, the district has a reputation for strong fiscal management.

Big Walnut middle and high school students consistently exceed state averages for the Ohio Graduation and Ohio Achievement Tests—more than 85 percent of students score at the “proficient” level or higher. High levels of participation and performance are hallmarks of the co-curricular program, which includes a tradition of state-level achievement in clubs, leadership, community service, agriculture, sports, theater and music.

Superintendent: Steven J. Mazzi

Schools: Three elementary, one middle, one high

Enrollment: 3,232

Median income: $42,924

Pupil/teacher ratio: 20:1

Expenditure per pupil: $9,396

Average teacher salary: $53,468

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26

Canal Winchester Local Schools

290 Washington St., 837-4533

The Canal Winchester Local school district is located in the village of Canal Winchester, about halfway between Columbus and Lancaster. Commercial and residential development continues to expand, providing a rapidly increasing enrollment for the school district. It’s estimated that the student population will continue to increase by about 175 new students each year for at least the next five years.

In 2004, voters passed a bond issue allowing the district to build a new middle school and add a wing to the grades 3-4 building without additional taxes on residents. The 3-4 building, which now houses grades 3-5, opened in 2007. The new middle school opened in 2008. The district is asking voters in May to approve an emergency renewal levy that will raise $6.4 million for three years; because it’s a renewal, taxpayers would not pay any more in taxes than they already do. School officials are hoping that the levy, if it passes, will help stem the tide of cuts that will be necessary to make up for budget shortfalls as a result of a reduction in state funding.

Technology is a major focus in Canal Winchester schools, with student computers in each classroom and technology labs in all school buildings. The district offers a strong arts-education program, with art and vocal and instrumental music available at the elementary level and continuing through high school. A K-12 gifted program, including AP classes at the high school, keeps students challenged. Four-year programs in French and Spanish also are in place. Due to increasing enrollment, additional programs have been added to the already strong athletic program.

Superintendent: Kimberley Miller-Smith

Schools: Two elementary (K-2 and 3-5), one middle (6-8), one high

Enrollment: 3,647

Median income: $41,278

Pupil/teacher ratio: 17:1

Expenditure per pupil: $9,604

Average teacher salary: $53,529

Standards met on report card: 22 of 26

Dublin City Schools

7030 Coffman Rd., 764-5913

The Dublin City Schools district, Ohio’s 12th largest, is an upscale and progressive district with a culturally diverse student population. It has earned the state’s highest designation—”excellent with distinction”—on its report card for seven consecutive years.

Dublin City Schools’ mission to provide all students with the best learning opportunities leads to a curriculum that offers advanced learners opportunities to succeed while ensuring the progress of all students. High school students may choose from 30 AP and honors classes in nearly every subject, and the International Baccalaureate program was added in 2008-’09. Last year, more than 90 percent of Dublin graduates went on to higher education. More than 300 Dublin students earned AP Scholar honors and 14 students were named National Merit Scholar Semifinalists in 2010. In addition to its academic offerings, the district prides itself on its high-achieving sports programs and its excellent visual and performing arts programs.

In February, the district began discussions about what type of levy it might ask voters to approve to continue to fund the high-achieving district. Voters last approved a levy in 2008 that the district said would fund the district through the 2012-’13 school year.

Superintendent: David Axner

Schools: 12 elementary, four middle, three high

Enrollment: 14,300

Median income: $48,313

Pupil/teacher ratio: 19:1

Expenditure per pupil: $12,881

Average teacher salary: $66,885

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26

Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools

160 S. Hamilton Rd., 471-7065

Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools believes its commitment to excellence provides a solid foundation to prepare students to be lifelong learners in a global economy where abstract problem solving, teamwork and sensitivity to diversity and foreign cultures are imperative.

Enrollment in the district—which was rated “excellent” by the Ohio Department of Education—has increased slightly each year. Students’ scores on SAT and ACT tests consistently exceed state and national averages. About 86 percent of graduates enroll in two- or four-year colleges. Lincoln High School has AP and honors courses and a variety of special education options. Numerous school-to-work and college-to-work courses are offered through Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools in conjunction with neighboring districts. There are outstanding music, art and sports programs as well.

The Gahanna-Jefferson Board of Education purchased 6.8 acres of land across from the high school to build Clark Hall. The top two floors will be modern, office-style classrooms emphasizing internships, dual-credit courses, accelerated and online learning opportunities and “life-like” business applications. Leasing agreements for first-floor space are confirmed with the Eastland-Fairfield career center and Columbus State Community College, creating an all-educational facility. Clark Hall will be ready for classes in fall 2011.

Superintendent: Mark White

Schools: Seven elementary, three middle, one high

Enrollment: 7,212

Median income: $44,747

Pupil/teacher ratio: 25:1

Expenditure per pupil: $11,832

Average teacher salary: $67,494

Standards met on report card: 25 of 26

Grandview Heights City Schools

1587 W. Third Ave., 481-3600

One of the older and more established suburban school systems in Central Ohio, Grandview has a collaborative management style that involves staff in the district’s decision-making process. The four buildings are well maintained and offer well-equipped classrooms, computer labs and library/media centers.

The district’s small size allows for a sense of community, and it enjoys strong support from residents. Options in the fine arts, performing arts, family and consumer science and foreign language have added to an already strong curriculum.

The Grandview district is proud of its ability to provide a “personalized” education, usually seen in private or parochial schools, due to its small size. It boasts outstanding student services in gifted and special education and emphasizes strong communication with parents. Grandview Heights’ K-12 approach to intervention assistance has increased understanding of individual student needs and has increased achievements.

Grandview Heights schools are known for their academic emphasis. The high school offers AP classes in calculus, English literature, history, studio art and English language and composition. The district recently approved offering AP courses in chemistry and European history and hopes to add macroeconomics, as well as AP music theory through an online vendor. It currently offers other dual enrollment and online courses.

Superintendent: Edward O’Reilly

Schools: One elementary, one intermediate, one middle, one high

Enrollment: 1,101

Median income: $42,687

Pupil/teacher ratio: 15:1

Expenditure per pupil: $14,977

Average teacher salary: $69,382

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26

Groveport Madison Local Schools

5940 Clyde Moore Dr., 492-2520

Serving the village of Groveport and Obetz as well as Madison Township, the Groveport Madison schools are located in southeastern Franklin County. The community is a fast-growing segment of greater Columbus, with new residential areas springing up.

The superintendent continues to reach out to residents, municipal leaders and the business community while taking an aggressive approach to academics—recruiting new leaders, adopting new textbooks and incorporating new ideas. The district is continuing its quest to improve student academic performance, especially as measured by state proficiency and achievement tests. As a result, it reached the “green light” for its value-added instruction that indicates students are showing a year’s growth in achievement, earning the district an “effective” rating on its state report card. The district is forming a steering committee to look at a Master Facility Plan for its buildings.

The high school has outstanding offerings in visual arts and world languages, including three years of Chinese. Administrators and staff have organized ninth-graders into small learning communities. The symphonic and marching bands regularly receive superior ratings at regional and state competitions.

Superintendent: H. Scott McKenzie

Schools: Six elementary, two middle, one junior, one high

Enrollment: 5,971

Median income: $30,591

Pupil/teacher ratio: 23:1

Expenditure per pupil: $10,893

Average teacher salary: $52,849

Standards met on report card: 8 of 26

Hamilton Local Schools

775 Rathmell Rd., 491-8044

Situated just south of Columbus near Route 23 and Rathmell Road, the Hamilton Local School District is experiencing growth and improvement in all areas. It has been one of the most improved districts in Ohio over the past six years due to an increase of more than 300 percent in “met standards” on its state report card. Hamilton Local Schools maintains an “excellent” rating from the Ohio Department of Education.

The district completed its master building plan by opening the new Hamilton Township High School building in 2009; Hamilton Local has one of the newest total campuses in the state, with the oldest classroom building built in 2003. The district also completed renovation of the former Hamilton Middle School to create the new Hamilton Education Center, which houses all of the administrative offices, Hamilton Preschool, the Hamilton Alternative Academy, a community use area, wrestling facility and fitness center, as well as the Hamilton Local Board of Education chamber.

The district’s commitment to student success is evidenced by increases in the state Performance Index and graduation rates and by exceeding the Value Added Measure. Hamilton Local’s athletic facilities, among the best in Ohio, continually host OHSAA playoff and tournament events and were made possible by more than $1.6 million raised by the Hamilton Boosters to cover expenses of facility renovation and improvements.

Superintendent: Christopher Lester

Schools: One preschool, one elementary, one intermediate, one middle, one high

Enrollment: 3,236

Median income: $28,571

Pupil/teacher ratio: 18:1

Expenditure per pupil: $8,945

Average teacher salary: $53,373

Standards met on report card: 21 of 26

Hilliard City Schools

5323 Cemetery Rd., 771-4273

This district, spanning 60 square miles in northwestern Franklin County, includes a mix of rural, small-town and suburban homes. The area has retained some of its rural flavor despite extraordinary growth over the past 15 years. Hilliard City Schools now is the ninth largest district in Ohio, serving nearly 15,000 students.

On the state’s 2009-’10 report card, the district earned the highest possible rating of “excellent with distinction.” The high and middle schools are known for their excellent academic, sports, art and drama departments, and the elementary schools offer a variety of educational programs to meet the needs of a growing and diverse student population.

High School 2020 is an initiative to evaluate current programming and determine the knowledge, skills and educational experience students need to compete globally in the 21st century. The district now is implementing recommendations from the initiative and has expanded it to include kindergarten through eighth grade. The sum total of this work has provided the district with a blueprint for the future.

Superintendent: Dale A. McVey

Schools: 14 elementary, two sixth-grade, three middle, three high

Enrollment: 14,797

Median income: $47,617

Pupil/teacher ratio: 18:1

Expenditure per pupil: $11,475

Average teacher salary: $69,369

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26

New Albany-Plain Local Schools

55 N. High St., 855-2040

New Albany-Plain Local Schools is situated in the village of New Albany, just east of Columbus. The district serves around 4,300 students in kindergarten through 12th grade and covers an area of 23 square miles, including the village of New Albany, Plain Township and neighborhoods within a small portion of the city of Columbus.

The district is known for its unique learning environment, with all of its schools and support facilities located on an 80-acre, college-style campus. The schools are designed in a Georgian architectural style, connected by tree-lined walkways and surrounded by a 120-acre nature preserve. From the “Jeffersonian-style” Library-Information Center to the Environmental Land Lab and high-tech classrooms, the learning environment is as unique as it is functional, creating outstanding educational opportunities for its students.

The district, one of Ohio’s most respected, has set a goal to become one of the nation’s top-performing school districts. All of its schools have earned “excellent” ratings on the state report cards, and the district has earned the state’s top rating for nine consecutive years. It has been recognized at the national level as well; it is one of the few districts in the country whose schools all have earned “Blue Ribbon” status from the U.S. Department of Education.

In addition to providing challenging academic offerings for all students, the New Albany district offers a wide array of opportunities, including athletics, performing arts and club activities. Nearly all of the district’s high school students belong to a club or organization, and 67 percent of students also participate in athletics or the performing arts. Ninety-five percent of graduates attend college, with 87 percent of those attending four-year colleges or universities, including some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions.

Superintendent: April Domine

Schools: One K-1, one 2-5 elementary, one middle, one high

Enrollment: 4,325

Median income: $68,627

Pupil/teacher ratio: 18:1

Expenditure per pupil: $11,814

Average teacher salary: $59,789

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26

Olentangy Local School District

814 Shanahan Rd., Lewis Center, (740) 657-4050

Olentangy is a K-12 school district located in southern Delaware County. Thanks to residential growth, the 95-square-mile district is the fastest-growing school district in Ohio, which has necessitated additional facilities.

Prior to 1990, the entire school district consisted of one K-12 building. Today, the district includes three high schools, four middle schools, 14 elementary schools and four preschools. Next year, Olentangy will add another elementary school and a fifth middle school. Constant improvement to the curriculum and instruction is a priority. Expectations are outlined in the Continuous Improvement Plan, which serves as a blueprint for the district’s success, guiding staff development and measuring progress along the way.

Olentangy’s most recent state report card rated it as “excellent.” In addition, five Olentangy seniors were named National Merit Semifinalists in 2010. Nearly all of Olentangy’s graduating class of 2010 continued on to higher education.

Superintendent: Wade Lucas

Schools: Four preschools, 14 elementary, four middle, three high

Enrollment: 15,933

Median income: $71,487

Pupil/teacher ratio: 15:1

Expenditure per pupil: $9,603

Average teacher salary: $58,920

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26

Pickerington Local Schools

777 Long Rd., 833-2110

Pickerington, about 15 miles east of Columbus, is one of Central Ohio’s most rapidly growing communities, and its school district is ranked 18th statewide in enrollment size. The district is currently the fifth fastest-growing school district in Ohio and has three new schools—a middle school and two elementaries—that opened last year.

Pickerington, a district that prides itself on providing a high-quality learning environment for every student, is known for its emphasis on academic achievement, supported by an extensive academic awards program and high athletic/activity eligibility standards. Pickerington offers numerous AP and honors courses, as well as a wide variety of programs for students with special needs. The district received a rating of “excellent” on its report card from the state.

Superintendent: Karen Mantia

Schools: Seven elementary, three middle, two junior, two high

Enrollment: 10,646

Median income: $46,375

Pupil/teacher ratio: 25:1

Expenditure per pupil: $9,876

Average teacher salary: $60,933

Standards met on report card: 25 of 26

Reynoldsburg City Schools

7244 E. Main St., 501-1020

The Reynoldsburg City School District has emerged as a statewide leader in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. All of the district’s programs are designed around the core belief that every child can learn at high levels. To ensure all students are prepared for college and careers in the 21st century, Reynoldsburg focuses on academic rigor and a high degree of personalization.

The district opened one of the state’s 10 platform STEM high schools in fall 2010. In fall 2011, three additional high school academies will open. They are designed to make the basics more relevant and provide special opportunities for students to explore their college and career interests.

Reynoldsburg high school students will choose their program of study from four academies: BELL (business, education, leadership and law), Encore (arts, communication and design), eSTEM (environmental science, technology, engineering and math) and HS2 (health sciences and human services). Each offers opportunities for students to gain career and college experience while in high school through internships and college courses. High school students can earn college credit in a variety of ways, including dual-credit classes taught by Reynoldsburg teachers or college professors at the high school, as well as at area college campuses, online and via distance learning.

In fall 2011, Reynoldsburg also will open Summit Elementary, a K-4 STEM school of choice, serving interested students of all abilities from across the district, and will open a grades 5-8 STEM school of choice in 2012-’13. Once that school opens, the K-12 STEM pathway—a campus where students may enroll in a STEM program from kindergarten through 12th grade—will be located on the district’s new Summit Road campus, where the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency has partnered to build an eco-learning lab that will serve STEM students from across the state.

All Reynoldsburg students benefit from the district’s partnership with the Ohio STEM Learning Network, Battelle Memorial Institute and Ohio State University through district-wide programs, such as its third-grade STEM Program of Excellence, which focuses on natural and manufactured water systems and their relation to the Blacklick Creek watershed. Reynoldsburg also has incorporated the arts and humanities in STEM programming through Stand Up for Shakespeare, a partnership with OSU and the Royal Shakespeare Company that introduces the bard to students starting in third grade and leverages the texts in the examination of current, real-world issues of technology and modern science.

Superintendent: Stephen D. Dackin

Schools: Five elementary, two middle, two junior, one high

Enrollment: 5,905

Median income: $33,512

Pupil/teacher ratio: 25:1

Expenditure per pupil: $9,678

Average teacher salary: $51,137

Standards met on report card: 24 of 26

South-Western City Schools

3805 Marlane Dr., Grove City, 801-3000

The South-Western City School District is rated “excellent” on its local report card. It is one of Ohio’s most unique school districts, offering wide-ranging opportunities to a diverse population of students in the southwestern portion of Franklin County. Ohio’s sixth largest district covers 119 square miles and has around 20,000 students.

The district is home to 16 elementary schools, five intermediate schools, five middle schools and four comprehensive high schools, as well as a highly regarded career-technical academy for juniors and seniors. South-Western also has a district-wide Head Start program.

Superintendent: William H. Wise

Schools: 16 elementary (K-4), five intermediate (5-6), five middle, four high, one special-needs prechool, one career-technical center

Enrollment: 19,984

Median income: $32,125

Pupil/teacher ratio: Less than 31:1 at the high school, less than 25:1 at the elementary

Expenditure per pupil: $9,894

Average teacher salary: $60,749

Standards met on report card: 13 of 26

Upper Arlington City Schools

1950 N. Mallway, 487-5000

Students of this affluent suburban district in northwestern Franklin County consistently achieve test scores among the highest in Ohio. Nearly all UAHS graduates continue their education at two- or four-year colleges or universities. Students are continually recognized for high achievement and often outperform their peers at state and national levels. Upper Arlington High School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and both Hastings and Jones middle schools are “Candidate Schools” for the IB Middle Years Programme.

Service learning is important in the Upper Arlington school district. Students log about 45,000 hours of community service each school year. Both middle schools received White House honors as service learning leaders.

Upper Arlington offers two programs for some of its youngest pupils: Burbank Early Childhood School, a preschool and summer program for younger students, and School Age Child Care, a before- and after-school program at each elementary school.

A 2007 levy approved by voters has helped the district pay for upgrades to facilities and equipment as well as instructional materials. The levy also has generated funds to build additions to Barrington and Greensview elementary schools.

Superintendent: Jeffrey W. Weaver

Schools: Five elementary, two middle, one high

Enrollment: 5,718

Median income: $57,176

Pupil/teacher ratio: 21:1

Expenditure per pupil: $14,840

Average teacher salary: $58,500

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26

Westerville City Schools

936 Eastwind Dr., 797-5700

The Westerville City School District earned the state’s highest rating of “excellent with distinction” on the most recent state report card. A large suburban district covering 52 square miles in northeastern Franklin County and southern Delaware County, the Westerville district offers a wide range of academic programs, including honors and AP courses, an International Baccalaureate program, postsecondary education options and opportunities for independent study. Parent interaction is stressed, and parent groups provide support for programs in music, athletics, academics, drama and special education.

The district provides academic coaches; interactive video teaching; peer mediation training; elementary magnet school programs in the arts, world languages and culture, math and science; able and talented resource centers, and individualized programs for some 1,800 special-needs students. For the 19th consecutive year, the district has earned the national “What Parents Want Award” from SchoolMatch. Only 16 percent of more than 15,000 public school districts in the country earned this distinction for providing the academic program, variety and rigor that families want for their children.

Superintendent: J. Daniel Good

Schools: 16 elementary, four middle, three high

Enrollment: 15,085

Median income: $41,284

Pupil/teacher ratio: 20:1

Expenditure per pupil: $10,067

Average teacher salary: $61,802

Standards met on report card: 25 of 26

Whitehall City Schools

625 S. Yearling Rd., 417-5000

The Whitehall City School District serves about 3,000 students in a positive, student-centered environment using a standards-based curriculum designed to meet the needs of a diverse population. The mission of the district is to “continually improve the achievement of all.”

The district offers a full continuum of educational programs, which includes after-school programs for students at all grade levels, all-day kindergarten, credit-recovery options and accelerated programs. High school students may participate in college-level English and math classes right at Whitehall-Yearling High School, while middle school students may begin a high school curriculum as early as grade 7. The high school and Rosemore Middle School partner with the “High Schools that Work” and “Making Middle Grades Work” organizations to ensure that instruction is based on the best research and practices. Whitehall students in grades 6-12 wear standardized dress to emphasize an appropriate, safe and respectful educational environment.

The first two of five new school buildings in the district will open in January 2012. Three other buildings also will be under construction at that time.

Superintendent: Judyth Dobbert-Meloy

Schools: Three elementary, one middle, one high

Enrollment: 3,100

Median income: $23,742

Pupil/teacher ratio: 16:1

Expenditure per pupil: $10,964

Average teacher salary: $53,732

Standards met on report card: 6 of 26

Worthington City Schools

200 E. Wilson Bridge Rd., 883-3000

Worthington is regarded as one of the highest-performing school districts in Central Ohio, as evidenced by student achievement. Scores on college entrance exams and state tests easily surpass state and national averages. More than 90 percent of its graduates pursue postsecondary education. In addition, the district provides excellent academic, sports and visual and performing arts opportunities for its students.

Worthington students’ scores on state proficiency tests regularly place the district in the top 10 percent of all school systems in the state. Ratings on the state report card reflect the high achievement of students at all levels. Worthington City Schools also offer numerous AP and honors courses for high school students. This year, Worthington Schools will recognize 12 National Merit Scholars—five from Thomas Worthington High School and seven from Worthington Kilbourne High School.

Superintendent: Melissa Conrath

Schools: One preschool, 11 elementary, three middle, one alternative middle, two high, one alternative high (Linworth Alternative School)

Enrollment: 9,418

Median income: $43,998

Pupil/teacher ratio: 19:1

Expenditure per pupil: $12,965

Average teacher salary: $75,346

Standards met on report card: 26 of 26