Thursday, April 20, 2000 | 9:25 a.m.
We have had a 12-year-old boy and a 10-year-old girl in the program since its beginning in August 1999. The individual attention, professionalism and concern for our children's education by the Odyssey teachers surpasses any experience we have had in the public school system. We moved from Virginia, and therefore have knowledge of East and West public education.
Our children have gained two grade levels in reading, from seventh to ninth grade level and from fourth to sixth grade level. Their vocabulary, computer and math skills, writing proficiency, and ability to learn on their own have improved more this year than we have ever seen before. They have completed testing for the next grade levels, and we feel confident that they are well prepared. They have experienced success, support and encouragement -- items all too often missing in this harsh world.
The Nevada Department of Education's actions against Odyssey Charter School are confusing in light of current public opinion about our education system. In this age of technology, with massive amounts of information to learn and process, we need alternative and innovative ways to teach our children. Education reaches far beyond the classroom, and it is our duty as parents and teachers to instill the love of learning, the thrill of discovery, and the curiosity to answer the unanswered.
"A failed experiment"? We do not believe that! New territory, perhaps, but fully functioning and successful in other states. We wholeheartedly endorse the Odyssey example of what education could be, and support the experienced and excellent staff that made this dream a reality.
We hope the Department of Education remembers "Children First."
VICTOR AND LINDA BORTUGNO
Logandale
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