The recent meeting of the Board of Education highlighted significant advancements in student learning and assessment strategies, particularly in science and literacy education. A key focus was the integration of science literacy into the curriculum, aimed at better preparing students for standardized testing. This initiative, driven by a former science teacher, emphasizes the importance of helping students synthesize information from various data sources, enhancing their analytical skills.

During the meeting, it was noted that nearly all students—98 to 99%—participate in the NWEA assessments, with only a few exceptions for absentees or new enrollees. This high participation rate ensures that the data collected is representative of the student population, allowing educators to tailor their instructional practices effectively. The use of daily data from educational technology applications further supports this goal, providing insights into student progress and areas needing improvement.

Miss Stevenson presented data from Lexia, an educational technology tool that tracks student performance in foundational and advanced skills. The results showed notable growth among students, particularly in fifth grade, where the percentage of learners demonstrating intermediate skills in word study increased from 35% at the beginning of the year to 63% by year-end. This progress underscores the effectiveness of the curriculum revisions made in collaboration with educational experts.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting reflect a commitment to enhancing educational outcomes through data-driven practices and innovative teaching methods. As the school year progresses, the board aims to continue leveraging these insights to support student learning and achievement across all grade levels.