School is out for Livingston ISD students who met attendance, academic goals

Although the 2011-2012 school year ended for many Polk County students Thursday, some may have to stay in class until June 8. The extra down time for area students come by way of the new fl ex calendar, approved for the 2011-2012 school year by the Texas Education Agency and implemented by some districts. Texas education offi cials approved the fl ex calendar as a way to give at-risk students extra oneon- one time with their teachers. The schedule also gives students additional incentives to attend class and pass state exams. First through eighth-grade students can earn the extra down time if the pass their all of core classes with a 75 percent or higher grade and pass all State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) tests. However, fi rst and second-grade students do not have to pass the test. High school students can also earn the extra weeks off if they pass their all of core classes with a 75 percent or higher grade, but must earn credit for their elective course. Students enrolled in duel credit courses must pass the class with a C or higher. Sophomores and juniors must also pass all their Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) tests. Students enrolled in the Challenger Program or attend a district alternative school are not eligible for the extra off time and will have to attend class through June 8.