NEW BLOOMFIELD, MO. -- The New Bloomfield School District is under the gun to make improvements in student test scores, after missing state standards for a second year. The trouble is with math and reading scores in the elementary levels and math and communication arts in other grades.

Thursday night parents, teachers, and administrators came together to brainstorm ways to improve learning. More than 80 people showed up for the meeting at the high school and their presence alone was encouraging to Superintendent Chris Small. He said the district has already made changes in curriculum. Special Services Director Sara Lane said teachers also have seen changes. They are becoming more data driven looking at individual achievement to make more specific learning plans.

Small asked people at each table to work together to map out future goals including what the district should start doing, keep doing, and stop doing. Ideas included stopping negativity and making excuses and practicing more consistent discipline.

While the meeting had a positive tone, the voices of critics were heard as well. One woman said the district should get back to basics, others want better communication including a better web site. One staffer said the frequent changes in school leadership create an unsettling environment.

The criticism wasn't just limited to academics, but also the school's imagine in the community.

Many felt that improvements like a new sound system in the high school gym would go a long way towards improving the community's perception of New Bloomfield Schools.