(Miami, FL) Mayor Manny Diaz presented the City of Miami School Grades Report for the 2008 – 2009 school year, including performance data for the past eight years for all City of Miami schools. The data shows that, after implementing key educational initiatives, the average grade for City schools has increased from a D in 2001-2002 to a B average this year.

“When I took office I recognized that we could not address issues like poverty and crime, if we do not focus on our youth and ensure that they have quality education programs that prepare them to compete in a global economy,” said Mayor Diaz. “The City’s education initiatives have boosted our schools’ improvement. However, much work still needs to be done.”

Upon taking office, Mayor Diaz reached out to government agencies to partner with Miami-Dade County Public Schools and develop a plan for the schools within our City. This effort led to the creation of the first of its kind, Education Compact.  The Compact focuses on improving academic programs, meeting capital/infrastructure needs and increasing parental and community engagement to ensure that every high school graduate is fully prepared to enter college or a career. 

Although this partnership has led to many improvements, challenges still remain, and Mayor Diaz urged the Commissioners to continue playing an active role in the education of Miami’s children.

“The data is both encouraging and alarming.  We have done great work through the Education Compact and have set a precedent that City Government must get involved in education.  However, there is still a lot of work to be done,” said Mayor Diaz.

Note: Attached please find the City of Miami School Grades Report shown to during today’s City Commission meeting.