Despite Scrutiny, Some School Districts Stand Behind A-F System

Backlash continues across the state from public education leaders after receiving those long awaited A-F grades. But now, we hear from school administrators, who stand behind the results as we learn about yet another change.

When the individual school grades were posted Wednesday afternoon, they included a district wide grade. Those district scores have been taken down because the state says they weren't ready.

11/6/2013 Related Story: Board Of Education Releases Grades For Oklahoma Public Schools

Despite statewide scrutiny of the new system, education leaders for Moore and Putnam City Schools stand behind them.

"We all should be held accountable for what we're doing," said Moore Supt. Robert Romines.

Dr. Romines has only been on the job since this summer. He says he knows what his districts weaknesses are and the focus is already on getting teachers and students where they're supposed to be academically.

"Most of it of course is built on test scores, test scores that were taken back in Spring of 2013, also attendance," said Romines.

Overall, Moore's 31 schools did well. Sky Ranch Elementary was the only school that received a D.

"But are they tailored, focused in on those weaknesses, and doing what they need to do to make those students successful? Absolutely," said Romines.

That's where Dr. Romines believes some of the frustration is coming from, not only from superintendents, but teachers across the state. But, Steve Lindley with Putnam City Schools says last year's scores aren't comparable because of the new system.

"I think our stand is, we're not in charge of the A-F system, we're in charge of the students who are in our classrooms," said Lindley.

Putnam City, the 5th largest school district in the state received better grades this year than last. Three schools received an A, compared to none last year.

"School improvement is a continuous process, and it's true at an A school, and it's true at a C school, no matter what your grade is. You're always looking at what you can improve," said Lindley.

Before the district scores were pulled down, Moore public schools received an overall grade of a B-, Putnam City, a D+.

Even though the state says those grades are not ready, they were still found posted on the website in another spot.

We'll let you know when the state says they're accurate.