ESSEX -- Richland R-1 School District recently was classified under the Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP) as "Accredited with Distinction for Improvement in Performance" by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

"We went through the MSIP program five years ago; the state department has changed the performance standards and there are a little more requirements now," said Superintendent Carrell Odom.

To be accredited, a district must meet high standards and the Richland R-1 school district was commended for having no concerns in the following areas:

* Resource standards including program of studies, class size, administrative staff and certification/planning times.

* Process standards including curriculum, instruction, climate, guidance and counseling, professional development, governance and administration and support services.

* Performance standards including general academic achievement, reading achievement, career preparation and education persistence.

"Our kids feel like they can compete with any other school system having met these standards. They also feel like they will have a better chance in life because of it," said Odom. "They understand the short-term or immediate gratification from this. They will understand the ramifications of it later in life." Odom said.

Tammy Murphy, Richland counselor, said the district was recognized for three positive strengths. These include the technical curriculum based on the level and quality, the health services that provides CPR training on all levels to students and staff and their handicap accessibility and wheelchair accessibility.

"This is not a stopping point; we can get better as we will look at the needs of students and the needs they have for society and use key needs to improve those skills," said Odom.

"As with any school system, there are areas of concern, but we are pleased with our accreditation," said Murphy.