Coweta's

test scores are up for elementary students and

Superintendent of Education Richard Brooks knows

why.

"Our

commitment to lowering the pupil-teacher ratio is

paying off," he said.

Three

years ago, the school system's staff was unhappy

with test scores and suggested lowering the

ratio. The ratio in elementary schools was

nearing 30-1 and the system has now lowered the

ratio to 20-1.

"With

some of our at-risk students, the ratio is

15-1," Brooks added.

In

addition to lowering the ratio, Brooks said the

system has realigned the curriculum to help

students perform better on the tests.

But

the bottom line in improving scores is how well

students are supported in their efforts. Brooks

said parents are the key factor in how well

students are prepared before they get to school.

Two

of the schools showing the biggest improvements

were Eastside Elementary School in Senoia and

Canongate Elementary in the northern part of the

county.

While

he's happy about scores rising, Brooks knows the

bounce may be temporary.

"Test

scores are sometimes elusive to get a grip on.

But we feel we're doing the best possible

measures for our students right now," he

said.