BLAINE Wildcats Make History; All Schools Have Work To Do
by Dr. Rob Fletcher
The state testing model changed to include novice reduction and categorical growth as two major components. Even with these changes, Blaine Elementary achieved “Proficient” status for the first time in school history. Unfortunately, our other schools fell short of the proficiency mark for 2015-2016.
After being named a Distinguished School in 2014-2015, Lawrence County High School lost ground after 2015-2016 test results.
We received individual student data in August. Although we were not allowed to share that data publicly, we began making changes to address the novice reduction components that we were missing for most of our schools.
We have purchased a new reading series (Benchmark Advanced) and math series (Go Math). Both these textbooks bring a curriculum to our classroom that is challenging and will improve the resources that our teachers are using.
Starting this year, our schools are required to administer the common assessments that go along with these textbook series. Teachers will use the data to better inform instruction and make sure our curriculum is aligned to state standards. This is just one of many steps that we must take.
Finally, while I am very happy for Blaine Elementary, I know that everyone of us, including the superintendent, can do better…and we will.”
