January 16, 2012 at 5:30 PM - Special Work Session

Discussion:  Also in attendance were Tim Meisner, Don Hague and presenter Terri Martin, Director of Curriculum and Assessment.

Discussion:  Curriculum & Assessment Director Terri Martin provided part II of her Assessment Data presentation to the full Board. Topics covered included online testing for students in grades 3 through 6, the variety of testing types that are provided and testing time frames. Martin discussed goals from last year, which included focus on the ACT series for grades 8-12, Nebraska State Accountability for grades 3-8 and 11 and Terra Nova tests. A handout for AIMSWEB and DIBELS was distributed for review by the full board that provided details on testing dates and results. Martin provided the 2011-2012 Goals in curriculum, assessment and school improvement. Specifics included a social studies curriculum time line, common core standards and inter-linked courses. Ne-PAS Accountability Model (performance indicators) was explained and assigning points were discussed. This model will be utilized to help monitor student growth. NeSA participation is one part of the process that the district has control over and Martin's goal is to get a minimum of 95% participation. Student data is part of each building Principal's evaluation. The Nebraska graduation target rate is 90%. The accountability system will awarde additional points to buildings that graduate more students. Gering High School's rate is 87%. A state policy is on the talbe for a 6 year graduation rate.