We were disappointed to see the headline, "Study questions charter school success" on June 22 and to read the article on the CREDO study on charter schools. We recognize the value of standardized testing, and this study will cause all of us to look even more closely at what we do.

The CREDO study clearly utilizes new and complex methodology in which statistical "virtual twins" are created for students at a school, if possible. Those presumed twins are then compared based upon standardized test scores.

What is not clear in methodology used is the composition of the virtual twins in terms of size, region, demographic classification and other factors, or the number of students matched per school.

In the CREDO study, Monte del Sol was determined to be underperforming compared to traditional public schools; however our raw test score data is in dramatic conflict with this conclusion.

For this reason we are investigating how the study's broadly stated conclusions were drawn, and hope to use this investigation to better serve our student body.

In the meantime, there is data we know to be true:

1. In all but 3 out of 21 points of comparison, Monte del Sol's seventh- and eighth-graders outscored the local school district in 2007-2008 state standardized testing (which was the same data used for the CREDO study).

2. Our graduation rate is in excess of 90 percent, with higher requirements than for the state of New Mexico.

3. For school year 2008-2009, Monte del Sol had more than 600 applicants for 60 openings in seventh grade and any available space in grades eight to 12.

4. A recent online parent survey found overwhelmingly that parents feel Monte del Sol is fulfilling its mission to celebrate diversity, teach a global perspective, and to create lifelong learners.

What the CREDO study makes no attempt to analyze is the quality of learning or of the education environment that students experience. We at Monte del Sol Charter School are attempting to change the way public education is delivered, both in terms of student learning, individual support and economic efficiency (charter schools receive less funding per student than other public schools).

Statistical analysis, such as is presented in the CREDO study, is very useful for us as a tool, and our goals include high testing achievement. However, Monte del Sol's mission is much broader than simple test scores. We endeavor to change the lives of students and the communities that surround them for the betterment of all.

Anne Salzmann is interim head learner and Ken Joseph is president of the governing board for the Monte del Sol Charter School Community.