Everyone needs a little encouragement, especially elementary-school kids taking tests.

“I know that you are very intelligent and always try your best which is what matters. Do your best since each exam is a step towards being that great doctor you have told me you want to be.”

That’s just one example of the special messages that McPherson Elementary School students in Napa Valley received, when 435 parents participated in a note writing campaign. It was part of a neighborhood-wide effort to raise standardized test scores to meet federal No Child Left Behind targets.

Kids were also boosted by local vendors, who donated school supplies and treats. Students got extra tutoring, and firefighters, police officers, and elected officials delivered motivational messages every morning over the PA system.

McPherson is one of several Bay Area Community Schools that is supported by United Way. Our grant supports the school’s Family Resource Center, which makes it easier for families meet basic needs by locating services right on the school campus. When families are sustaining themselves, kids can focus more on learning.

After four months of parents, teachers, and the community joining forces, tests were taken, and McPherson was one of only three elementary schools in Napa Valley Unified School District to meet all testing targets required by No Child Left Behind.

To celebrate, the Napa City Police Department closed the streets and escorted more than 700 McPherson students with about 100 teachers and community members to the new high school football stadium to honor this shared achievement. Everyone was greeted by the Napa High School marching band and cheerleaders, and the school district treated everyone present to a BBQ.

Congratulations, McPherson!