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6:57	Dale McConnaughay - We'll get started here in just a minute. Welcome Dr. Bourff! Those joining us can begin submitting questions as they log on.

7:00	Dale McConnaughay - I will go ahead and get us started with a question. Dr. Bourff, on the proposed Starr and Discovery consolidation, how did that discussion come about?

7:02	Allen Bourff - That discussion began a few years ago when the enrollments of both schools began to decline. It gained momentum only recently when it was suggested that they could merge as a single school rather than two schools operating under a single roof.

7:04	Dale McConnaughay - One editorial board member asked this week whether merger would improve Starr students' ISTEP scores? If so, how might that happen?

7:09

Allen Bourff - Bear in mind that all the students will now be students of the Elizabeth Starr Academy. We will not identify students as former Starr or Discovery students. That being said, however, we believe that the greater number of teachers and classes will lead to more flexible grouping of students so that teachers can respond to specific learning needs. That is very difficult now when there is but one teacher per grade. We are planning to see all the students perform at higher levels. We also believe that the MicroSociety program, now at Discovery will provide that real-world application to academics that will spark students' interest in their studies.

7:10	[Comment From Citizen Kane] Is it appropriate to call it a consolidation if no buildings are closed and no personnel cuts are made?

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