1) What programs are implemented at your school to prepare students for standardized tests?
We engage in remediation programming as part of our block schedule. This is done for 45 minutes every day. This allows us to specifically address the needs of both at-risk students as well as students who typically are meeting the mark by providing support to move them to the next level of advanced achievement. We use programs such as Zearn for math, Lexia for literacy, and IXL across most contents to ensure we support students at all levels. I would say our most impactful programming comes from direct teaching and reteaching provided by our outstanding teachers at Parry McCluer High School.
2) Do you believe that standardized tests are an accurate representation of how well students are Learning?
I believe standardized testing does serve a purpose and should be a part of educational programming. Specifically, with regard to it being an accurate representation of current discussions around cut-scores and increased rigor, I would say “accurate representation” to some degree. Standardized tests are psychometrically sound and, as such, should be valid and reliable; however, a single test may not be indicative of a student’s knowledge due to a variety of factors. With current cut-score discussions at the state level with regard to standardized testing, this could be an accurate representation or an inaccurate representation related to the results as determined by state agencies. I am not against increased rigor, but I am against increasing expectations so dramatically that it will create a significant barrier to student success. My hope is that a reasonable solution towards increased rigor is found among constituents involved in these discussions.
3) How do you feel about where this school’s scores have been placed in the past, present, and projected for the future?
We have had impressive results in the past, as we have been accredited and received Exemplar Awards from the state in two categories at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year based on 2021-2023 results. The current accreditation status of Parry McCluer is accredited, and the school has been awarded an Exemplar rating in two categories of continuous improvement for that year. These two categories were for 1) Increase in Achievement Over a Three Year Period in Math, Reading, and Science, and 2) Increase in Achievement in Mathematics and Reading Over a Three-Year Period in 2 or more student groups. We were 1 of 11 schools to achieve the first category of continuous improvement, and we were 1 of 26 schools to achieve this in the second category. Our teachers and students have worked so very hard to attain this amazing accomplishment, and I couldn’t be more proud of what they have accomplished.
Currently, we are entering a new accreditation system that started last year, and currently we are waiting for official scores. Still, considering these accountability measures are still being worked on and in the process of being delivered, from what we know, the results look promising. For the
future, it is hard to say how I feel about cut-score discussions that continue to be held to this date. My hope is that it will be done incrementally. I am for increased rigor, but I believe it should be slowly pushed forward rather than initiated in a dramatic fashion. Still, whatever they end up being, I am confident that both students and teachers will rise to the bar expected and be successful.
4) What kinds of struggles do students face when it comes to standardized testing, and what can be done about them?
Students face immense pressure for standardized test expectations at the high school level, as standardized tests are a part of graduation requirements. The best thing we can do is encourage students to achieve their best, to ensure that they attend school and get the most out of their educational experience. We also want to ensure that both students and staff have the support they need to help students succeed. In addition, the community, local officials, and state agencies can continue to support schools by providing the funding necessary for our students to be successful.
5) Do you think the topic of SOL scores in our local schools is only relevant to people who have children in those schools?
Absolutely not. Schools are the lifeblood of any community. Most people generally want their children to have a good education, and high or low performing schools can affect the housing market, which is also part of the state’s funding formula. Great schools are a reflection of the
community and their values, so good test scores not only reflect the great work that happens in schools, but also the whole community. High-performing schools and newer facilities ensure businesses are brought into communities, and that also provides opportunities for graduates and current citizens to have places to work that often include higher-paying jobs. Great schools and their infrastructure ensure a successful and enticing place to live. The quality of life in a community has a direct correlation to the quality of schools that are provided to those who live in that area.
Final Thoughts:
At Parry McCluer High School, we believe in a strong culture with a growth mindset, a student and staff leadership focus, and core values focused on respect, integrity, and kindness. We are extremely proud of these tenets, and we love ensuring that our students are ready for whatever comes their way, whether it be local or global. Go Blue!
