Parents irked by letter on scores seek apology

BRISTOL, Va. (AP) — A letter from school administrators saying black and disabled students caused Virginia Middle School to fail to meet annual progress benchmarks under the No Child Left Behind Act has angered parents.

The one-page letter said some black students and students with disabilities didn't score high enough on their statewide reading and math exams, and the low scores prevented the school from meeting progress goals.

The letter was attached to student report cards last week. About 30 parents, outraged by the letter's wording, met Tuesday night and decided to request a meeting with school officials before the Nov. 5 Bristol School Board meeting.

"We would like an apology — that'd be nice — but we know it won't be sincere," said Kathy Bunche, one of the angry parents.