Differences in School Offerings

Recently my Sumac fifth-grader was asked to fill out a form indicating her preference for one elective out of three offered at A. E. Wright Middle School for new sixth-graders this fall. Being naturally curious, we picked up the sixth-grade elective form at Lindero Canyon Middle School for comparison. Guess what? There is no comparison.

First, Lindero Canyon offers two electives to any sixth-grader who selects zero period P.E. A.E. Wright canceled its zero period and offers only one elective per student.

Second, Lindero Canyon offers a full year of either Spanish or French. The only foreign language offered at Wright is 10 weeks of Spanish (introduction)) as a part of the “Discovery” program (one of three electives offered).

Third, Lindero Canyon offers chorus and/or band or string orchestra). Wright offers only beginning band.

Dr. Marley and his staff have consistently assured Sumac parents (involved in the October, 1986, boundary change between middle schools) that both schools offer the same programs and opportunities. This is obviously not the case. As long as the Las Virgenes School District continues to force students (through redistricting) to attend schools other than those closest to their homes, then the district should make sure that the programs offered at the new school are equal to those at the closer school.

BOB and DIANE VENABLE

Agoura Hills