Quality of Life Indicators

educational infrastructure to meet community needs data

educational funding adequacy
use of technology for learning
special needs education opportunities

educational funding adequacy

According to the iNVest ‘07 Report, educators and legislators agree on the importance of preparing a highly educated workforce, but many of Nevada’s 426,437 students face obstacles to academic achievement. Nevada continues to hover among the lowest four states in the nation in education funding, as does our student achievement. Critical programs that will help our students improve academically must be funded and implemented if education in Nevada is to improve.

iNVest is based on three tenets, all designed to improve student achievement:

1. Districts must have adequate basic support;
2. Districts must have the capacity to attract and retain a quality work force; and
3. Districts must have the means to increase instructional time and expand educational opportunities.

use of technology for learning

Computers and high-speed Internet access are a necessary part of educational infrastructure in addition to textbooks, quality teachers, and other instructional support.

special needs education opportunities

The WCSD is required by law to provide education for special needs students. Student Support Services’ mission is to provide the support needed to ensure the educational, intellectual, social/emotional, and vocational development of students with disabilities to enable them to participate in, and be productive members of, society.  WCSD special education services

By law, the Washoe County School District (WCSD) must accept all students, regardless of the capacity of the schools. The school district has used year-round school schedules and rezoning to accommodate growth. Total enrollment has averaged around 3% for the last several years. While 24 new schools have opened since 1990, overcrowding is a problem, especially at the middle school level.  The 2005 WSCD enrollment projections study identified growth projections slowing somewhat, but estimated total enrollment in 2011 at 74,077 students. WCSD enrollment projections