Close to 200 people attended a public hearing Monday night regarding the future of the Normandy School District in north St. Louis.

The hearing was an opportunity for students, parents, teachers and community members to share their thoughts with state education officials and school administrators. Feedback given at the meeting will help inform a long-range plan for the future of the unaccredited district.

“We were encouraged by the passion and concern Normandy parents and teachers showed for their children,” said Commissioner of Education Chris L. Nicastro. “It is imperative that the Department work together with parents, community members and school leaders to improve education for our kids.”

Normandy officials presented a plan to improve education in the district that includes working with universities and other organizations to improve teaching. The district also laid out its four main goals moving forward:

• Student achievement, college and career readiness and improving attendance rate
• Professional development
• Parent and community involvement
• Technology improvements

As the Department continues to work on long-range planning for the future of the district, continued input from district officials, students, parents and community members is vital.

A second public hearing will take place from 6:30-8 p.m. Dec. 11 at Viking Hall Auditorium, Normandy High School, 6701 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Louis.