St. Regis students show big gains in standardized testing
During 2017-2018 MAP’s testing, this chart shows all but two classes meeting the state standards, a marked increase compared to last year’s test. (Photo courtesy St. Regis School).
A chart showing students progress in 2015-2016 for mathematics only shows the 5th and 6th grade classes with proficiency during MAP’s testing for St. Regis School. (Photo courtesy St. Regis School).
Every year the students at St. Regis School have to take the Measure of Academic Progress test in the fall, winter, and spring.
The test measures growth and proficiency in math, reading, language, and science. The teachers and students use this data to measure growth throughout the year. If students struggle, they are placed in interventions to help fill gaps that will eventually lead them to mastering the material.
Charts show how much growth the students have made over the past several years. The diamonds in the graph indicate where the students should be, while the bars represent where they are at. If the bar touches the diamond, it indicates that they have met the standard. If the bar exceeds the diamond, it shows that they have surpassed the state standards.
In 2015-2016, only the fifth- and sixth-grade classes showed proficiency. In 2017-2018, it shows all but two classes meeting the state standards resulting in a 450 percent increase. The results for Reading and Science are the same and better in some cases.
The reason for success is simple according to Principal Shaun Ball: “It’s GRIT... The teachers don’t give up. They are constantly evaluating their teaching and making adjustments based on data. If something isn’t working, they are not afraid to try something new.”
Because of this “fail forward” mentality, the school has developed a culture of learning. Teachers are working hard to develop interventions for all students K-12 and set learning goals and objectives each week and measure progress at least once a month for most students.
“Students have begun to take ownership of their learning and are working diligently to master the material,” he said. “We are now seeing students take the necessary steps to be successful versus the old method of “spoon feeding” student’s information.”
Administrators expects the results to be even better next year. Recently the St. Regis School Board passed a calendar that will allow more time on Friday’s for teachers to collaborate with one another. The time will be spent providing effective feedback as well as creating curriculum that is individualized for each and every student.
“It’s nice when the board, the students, and teachers are all working together towards a common goal,” said Ball. “We all have bought into the vision of personalized learning as well as creating learning plans that “flexible and adaptable” to students. Time will tell if the plan will work but based on the data, hope and morale are high at the school.”
Ball said he is proud of the students and staff for how far they have come in just a short period of time. He is also thankful for all the parents and community members that have supported the school with this vision.