To the editor,

I'm a parent of two RFSD students. Over the past few years, I've become increasingly concerned over their education. I've voiced my concerns, backed them with facts, and been met with flippant disregard by some of the current school board members.

I decided to do some research to see if my concerns were rooted in factual data. What I discovered not only validated my concern, but worried me even more. For reference/transparency, all data can be found on the Wisconsin DPI website.

I compared data from 2018/19 year to the 2021/22 year. My focus was solely on RFHS testing scores and rankings. Shockingly, the overall score fell from 81.5 to 73.2. The math scores proved even worse than suspected. Students in the Proficient/Advanced category dropped from 51.6% to 38.9%. But what angered me more, was the RISE in the BELOW BASIC category, from 15.3% up to 29.7%! These figures have continued to rise year after year! This is completely unacceptable! This drop in scores also comes at a time when funding has risen to $21,892/student (state median is $16,633); this represents a 100% growth in funding over the past four years!

A quick comparison of the surrounding districts, comparing the same math data, places RFSD seventh out of eight!

It's little wonder why enrollment has dropped at the H.S. RFSD has problems that need to be addressed immediately. School Board elections are being held April 4. It's beyond time for some new ideas and perspectives to generate new discussions. Cassie Erickson will be that fresh voice for RFSD!

Joanne Walsh

River Falls