This past week 2013 SAT scores were released and Newton County’s scores decreased from last years’ 2012 results in all subjects, which included Critical Reading, Math and Writing.

As much as we editorialized on the general improvements we feel are happening with our local school system over the last three years, the recently released SAT tests are more than disappointing.

There is much riding on improvements being made in our school system --businesses and families look closely at test results such as these when making the decision whether to locate to Newton County.

We, by no means, have lost faith in the efforts being made to improve our school system, but having score results that reflect a backward slide is just not acceptable.

In a continuing effort to improve student progress, we trust that the administration and teachers in the Newton County School System will implement strategies that make our students competitive on state and national-normed tests.