Letter to the Editor

Superintendent comments on class rank

Posted

Dear Editor:

On June 2, 2018, the community of Waelder along with Administrators, Teachers and Support Staff of Waelder ISD attended the High School Graduation Commencement ceremony. Unfortunately, there has been much commentary in the community about the results and the naming of the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for Waelder ISD. Being named either the Valedictorian or Salutatorian is a wonderful accomplishment. It also can be a very competitive race between students over the course of four years. In some cases, the difference between students’ four-year rank is within a thousandth of a point (.001).
WISD Board Policy outlines the criteria for selection honors graduates. Every year, Waelder ISD staff work diligently to determine the Valedictorian and the Salutatorian in accordance with that policy.
After receiving concerns regarding the selection process this year, the District invited outside parties to review and comment on our system. A LULAC representative and a high school counselor with over 30 years of experience reviewed the District’s process and calculations, and they concluded that there were no errors.
At Waelder ISD we are proud of all our graduates, and we know they have bright futures ahead of them. We have great respect for the Gonzales County Community and the graduating class of 2018, and it is always our intention to address issues that arise in our community with the same respect.

Sincerely,
Jon Orozco
Waelder Superintendent of Schools

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