Program Improvement

Last month, I posted a discussion of the national Adequate Yearly Progess measures that are part of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, previously knows as No Child Left Behind.

Our school district learned that 4 of our schools [Morrill (year 3), Summerdale, Vinci Park, and Piedmont] are now considered "Program Improvement" (PI) schools. To be labeled a PI school, a school may miss just one of 46 possible measures. Learning where our schools are falling short is a key way to focus on improving achievement.

In addition to the individual schools, our district is now considered a "Program Improvement" district. As a result of this designation, our district must undertake a very thorough study of how we are providing what are called 9 Essential Program Components. This study will be done during the next two months. Our Education Services Department, under the leadership of Assistant Superintendent Barbara Johnston, will lead the study and the effort to implement corrective actions at our schools.

Last night, the Board held a study session to learn more about what the district needs to do address its deficiencies and what kinds of restrictions and requirements are placed on PI schools and districts. A discussion of what it means to be a PI school is available on the district website. The law imposes some restrictions on how Title I money can be spent and will require additional Supplemental Instruction activities be offered.