School deserved to have test results published

Earlier this month, The Gazette published results of standardized tests given to Eastern Iowa students from the public schools in Linn and several surrounding counties, including Benton County. Results from parochial schools were also included except for those from Central Lutheran School, a parochial school located in Newhall.

The Gazette's reason for not printing Central's results: The school is too small. Understood. We are small at 158 students (preschool through eighth grade). However, using enrollment figures to determine which schools are included or excluded is a disservice to The Gazette's 6,000-plus Benton County subscribers. Size simply does not translate into the amount of support given to or interested generated by this school.

CLS draws students from a 20-mile radius, including Cedar Rapids and Vinton. Cedar Rapids offers several parochial school options, yet parents are willing to make the 20-mile drive to New-hall, twice a day, 180 days a year. One reason is our students' academic success in standardized testing. Unfortunately, Gazette readers were not given the opportunity to see those results.

Readers might find it interesting to know how the only parochial school in their county fares against the public schools. Next year, we hope The Gazette will publish the results of the standardized testing. Until then, you may view the results on our Web site, www.Central

LutheranSchool.org

Janet Doellinger

Principal

Central Lutheran School