As you likely know, each year the schools in k12 education are assessed for effectiveness through multiple measures. The popular assessment litmus test is called the “standards test.” I just got my scores back for my class last year and I’d like to discuss them with you. This test is both hated and revered by teachers all across America. When it is given it’s the one time we as classroom teachers are not as “in control” as usual, or as we would like. The students bubble in answer documents and we stand to the side for a week until the tests are shipped up to Sacramento, in my case here in California, or to the respective capital office of each state.
Then the waiting begins.
There are around 185 teaching days in a k12 education year. The standardized test is given in late April so the teaching days before the test are about 3/4 of that. Teachers are expected to produce results. Students are classified into 5 levels based on their percentages, they are roughly this:
90-100% Advanced
75-89% Proficient
—–
50-74% Basic
25-49% Below Basic
0-24% Far Below Basic
Proficient and Advanced are considered “passing” by the state. Everything below is unacceptable under the “No Child Left Behind” act. Schools work all year to get as many passing as possible and they also get points for improvement. These points are called “API,” Academic Performance Index. An acceptable performance score for a school is 800 API or above. With that in mind you might want to see the history of my school, Westside Park, on Wikipedia. We’ve come a long way and it’s been a fun ride.
Today I was able to access my scores and they were quite good. Overall I am pleased and encouraged that what I have been preaching REALLY WORKS. EDI as part of an engaging, “dynamite” lesson plan will show results on the standards test. I’m looking forward to dispensing with the shyness and delivering solid posts here about what has worked and what I am experimenting with this coming year. I hope you’ll be along on the ride. My topics will include standardized testing and much more beyond that. I truly believe I have much to offer that can raise your standardized testing scores. Like my song goes I wrote for my kids about 8 years ago:
English and math are calling your name
Get on board, get on board the standards train!
Moments like this must be written down for when those inevitable valleys come, they bring a teacher strength.
