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186 schools: 53.7% participate in free or reduced meals program; 56% are in single parent households; 40% attended multiple schools (representing at least one move); and 14.2% are absent more than 15 days a year. Regarding the SOL's, Ms. Dimberg said that steady improvement is being shown and if this continues, the schools will meet the benchmarks for accreditation. Ms. Dimberg said that 113 students took Advanced Placement tests, and 91% scores at 3, 4 or 5. Ms. Dimberg said that the achievement disparity between black and white students is between 30 and 40 points. Dr. William Symons, Superintendent of Schools, asked how we ensure that We have a quality community that attracts a balanced population. Mr. Lynch asked if there is a profile of students who either are not achieving or drop out. Mr. T. Lewis, Clerk of the Board, said that there are myriad of masons that students drop out, and said students are interviewed and staff could be invited to speak to Council about this issue. Mr. Lynch said some things may be systemic and if that can be identified we can determine programs that could help. Ms. Dimberg said that literacy is a major issue in the drop-out rate. Mr. Lewis said the definition of poor has changed. It used to mean you had no money, but now it means many things. Mr. Toscano said he thinks the intervention by the courts system has been invaluable in getting parents involved with their children's education. Mr. Lewis asked Council to get any questions they may have about students who drop out so that a presentation could be prepared for a future meeting. COUNCIL CHAMBER - October 2, 2000 Council met in regular session on this date with the following members present: Mr. Caravati, Mr. Cox, Mr. Lynch, Ms. Richards. Absent: Mr. Toscano. AWARDS/RECOGNITIONS Mr. Caravati presented a proclamation proclaiming World Mental Health Day to Mr. John Walters, President of the Mental Health Association. Mr. Caravati presented the City's Business Recognition Award to Mr. David Sutton of Tiger Fuel Company. Mr. Sutton said that the City is a great environment in which to operate a business. PUBLIC Ms. Emily Heule, 313-A Riverside Avenue, representing the Public Housing Association of Residents (PHAR) and the Virginia Organizing Project, said she is proud that Council initiated a living wage for all City employees, noting that following this action the Charlottesville Schools and Albemarle County also adopted a living wage. Ms. Heule presented Council with a list of 59 businesses which also pay a living wage, and encouraged Council to require that all contract businesses pay their employees a living wage.