One Community, One Voice and the Closing the Gap Community Committee was established by the Board of Education in February 2002. Their mission was to support and enhance efforts to close the achievement gap among all students.

The OCOV action plan, released in 2004, includes reports from several subcommittees: world-class standards and accountability; teachers; early children education; exceptional and diverse learners; parent and family involvement; leadership; school-based decision-making; discipline ad hoc subcommittee; and financial ad hoc subcommittee.

One Community, One Voice works with the school system and other community partners to support parents who are committed to being actively involved in their children's education and their schools. 

Academic Challenge

One of the major initiatives is the annual Academic Challenge series, which gives elementary kids an opportunity to compete in rigorous contests that embrace knowledge as a worthy endeavor. Students in grades 2-5 work in teams to answer questions in all subject areas. The district hosts three tournaments each year, culminating in a contest for college scholarships. All interested students may participate; watch for sign-ups at your child's school in early fall.

2011-2012

• Nov. 5 - Invitational
• Feb. 4 - Principals' Cup
• March 10 - Superintendent's Cup

2010-2011

• Nov. 6 - Invitational
• Feb. 5 - Principals' Cup
• March 12 - Superintendent's Cup

2009-2010

• Nov. 14 - Invitational
• Jan. 30 - Principals' Cup (cancelled by bad weather)
• March 13 - Superintendent's Cup