Saturday, February 16, 2008

It's All About Data!

On Monday I have the privilege of working with a group of middle school staff in the Wausau School District. I will walk them through a process of systematically analyzing available student test data, paying attention to various student groups as we go. It should be an eye opening time for all participants involved.

The requirements associated with NCLB are quite stringent, and while we're all hopeful that a new administration will result in at least a "revision" of NCLB, for now we are held to current standards. That means we must all make progess toward 100% proficiency of ALL students in the areas of reading and math. Reasonably, I think we could achieve 100% progress, focusing on unique and individual needs that in some cases, are more than any child should ever be expected to handle. Do public schools do a good job? You bet! We educate ALL students, and we're darn proud to do it.

The middle school staff will review group scores, test items, their curriculum and current goals to determine any needed changes or information or training that will enhance their ability to improve student achievement.

Hats off to all educators!