Vaughn Street Savings

* I agree that those of us in public education should investigate the apparent financial successes of Vaughn Street Elementary, a charter school (editorial, April 5). It should also be noted that several LEARN schools have achieved a surplus in their initial year of operation.

Your editorial spoke about improved attendance, future real estate purchases and operational cuts; however, I would like to know if the instructional program is better and if student outcomes have improved. The true measuring stick for a quality school is not found in a profit/loss monetary statement; it is most manifestly revealed in terms of student achievement. The LEARN schools have embarked on a systemic plan for improved student outcomes as part of a long-range investment. A quality educational program has nothing to do with a one-time financial windfall.

JAMES E. ABBOTT, Principal

Annalee Avenue School

LEARN School

Carson