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Test results below state averages

District looks to keep pace with state averages in annual assessments

Focus on literacy and math continues in 2016-2017

Tuesday State Superintendent Randy Dorn released spring 2016 state testing results from the Smarter Balanced assessments in English language arts and math, taken by students in grades 3-8 and 10-11; the Measurements of Student Progress (MSP) in science, taken by students in grades 5 and 8; and high school end-of-course (EOC) exams in algebra I, geometry and biology.

Walla Walla Public Schools assessment results indicate the district is lagging behind state averages in both English language arts and math achievement rates in grades 3-8 prompting the district to center its 2016-2017 goals on improvement in these content areas. The district will also focus on continuing its trend of low drop-out rates and higher than state average graduation rates.

“By ensuring a comprehensive focus on all students in literacy and math we expect to see individual achievement growth for each and every student,” said Superintendent Wade Smith. “We will incorporate best-practice instructional strategies, targeted interventions, and challenging enrichment opportunities in order to deliver robust individual improvement for all students in English language arts and math.”

A total of 3,117 Walla Walla Public Schools students completed the English language arts exams and 3,108 were tested in math during the April and May state testing window. The district’s investment in technology and improved efficiencies in test preparation and proctoring significantly increased the amount of time for classroom instruction. Annual testing time for students was approximately one percent of their instructional day over the course of the year.

“By increasing the number of technology devices in each school, we were able to test more students at one time, thus reducing the overall impact of testing on the educational experience of all students,” said Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Christy Krutulis. 

Superintendent Smith reported the district will improve district office support to schools, enhance professional development, ramp up curriculum adoptions and alignment, better utilize assessment data and develop professional learning communities focused on improving instructional practices as steps to improvement. Each school principal has been charged with developing specific plans for improvement for their schools, and Superintendent Smith will provide progress reports to the school board throughout the school year.

2016 State Assessment Results at a glance:

-       Below state average in grades 3-8 Smarter Balanced assessments in English language arts and math

-      Below state average in high school Smarter Balanced assessment in English language arts

-      Below state average in middle school and high school state science assessments

-     Above state average in high school Smarter Balanced assessment in math

-       Above state average in high school graduation rates

-       Better high school drop-out rate than state average

For a complete look at all district state assessment information, visit the OSPI school report card.

State Test Results

 

 

WALLA WALLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS • 364 South Park St. • Walla Walla, WA 99362 • Phone: 509-527-3000 • Fax: 509.529.7713

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