Good Things Happening at Central Lyon
by David Ackerman
A few weeks ago, I was asked to give the closing remarks at the Central Lyon Foundation Banquet. Those remarks outlined a number of good things that many patrons may not realize about the Central Lyon School District. I have had several people ask for a copy of those remarks, so I am posting them on the school’s website.
These days we hear a lot of what is wrong with schools. I’d like to take a moment to tell you what is right with Central Lyon. Central Lyon believes in being an all encompassing school district. It begins with housing the Kid’s Club 3 year old preschool program and working with Headstart and local daycare providers to coordinate educational services for preschool age children. Central Lyon hosts an Early Childhood Special Education program in conjunction with the AEA. In this classroom, 3 and 4 year old students who have educational needs receive individualized education in nearly a one on one setting. Next, Central Lyon hosts a 4 years old preschool in spite of the fact that we have not yet gotten the state preschool grant. A morning and afternoon session of 20 students each eagerly arrive at school 4 days a week to begin their educational experience. Next, Central Lyon offers Transitional Kindergarten for 5 year old students who are not quite ready for Kindergarten. This leads to a K-5 elementary that averages less than 19 students per class. Our elementary Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS) tests results are always well above the state average. Our Middle School continues the tradition of excellence by maintaining the high test scores while preparing the students for high school socially and academically. Central Lyon High School meets the needs of all students by offering a wealth of classes – both core and elective that challenges our students, and moves them toward their chosen fields. Last year’s ACT composite score from the high school was 22.9. The state of Iowa average was 22.4, and Iowa’s score was second in the nation. The High School continues to add college level course options for our students, while the alternative school which is housed in the new community room of the activity center assists students to earn their alternative high school degree, sometimes preventing students from dropping out. Of course Central Lyon offers extra curricular opportunities for our students from Music and the Fine Arts to Athletics and the Performing Arts. To repeat, Central Lyon is all encompassing – from early childhood to postgraduate preparation. A professional, caring staff, a supportive school board, and two involved communities make Central Lyon the strong school system that it is. I invite anyone to come spend some time in the school, and see for yourself the good things that are going on.
