Team,
Many of you have been asking about state test scores and when we will know those results. We know those scores will be released soon with public release being determined by NYSED.
Looking back on state test days of administration, I remember how much our kids poured into the assessments. I remember how much perseverance they showed. I remember how each of you worked deliberately to set a can do, do your best attitude.
I also remember your faces and that look of defeat at the end of some of those days. You worried about how our students would fare. You were careful not to talk about that but I could see it in your eyes.
But those days are just pieces of an entire year of instruction. I know that you worked incredibly hard last year to improve and maximize instruction.
Do we still have areas where we need to improve?
Yes. (Doesn't everyone?)
Still, haven't we already made improvements that may not show in that kind of data yet?
You bet we have!
Our plan, when the scores are released, should be to look at those scores as part of our multiple sources of information. What we will do is critically review the information to adjust curriculum where needed and provide supports to students where warranted.
What we won't do is criticize ourselves or our performance. I'll stand by the efforts of this team as long as I am given the privilege of being your principal. Remember, our work matters. As long as we keep kids first, we will get there.
"I'm not telling you it's going to be easy. I'm telling you it's going to be worth it". - A. Williams
All the best,
L
Many of you have been asking about state test scores and when we will know those results. We know those scores will be released soon with public release being determined by NYSED.
Looking back on state test days of administration, I remember how much our kids poured into the assessments. I remember how much perseverance they showed. I remember how each of you worked deliberately to set a can do, do your best attitude.
I also remember your faces and that look of defeat at the end of some of those days. You worried about how our students would fare. You were careful not to talk about that but I could see it in your eyes.
But those days are just pieces of an entire year of instruction. I know that you worked incredibly hard last year to improve and maximize instruction.
Do we still have areas where we need to improve?
Yes. (Doesn't everyone?)
Still, haven't we already made improvements that may not show in that kind of data yet?
You bet we have!
Our plan, when the scores are released, should be to look at those scores as part of our multiple sources of information. What we will do is critically review the information to adjust curriculum where needed and provide supports to students where warranted.
What we won't do is criticize ourselves or our performance. I'll stand by the efforts of this team as long as I am given the privilege of being your principal. Remember, our work matters. As long as we keep kids first, we will get there.
"I'm not telling you it's going to be easy. I'm telling you it's going to be worth it". - A. Williams
All the best,
L
Lisa, this is a great post. Here are my three take-aways: 1) I love how you are planning to use the scores as formative assessment - not a final one. 2) Also, I appreciate that you acknowledge that the scores are just one piece of the puzzle. 3) You emphasize team and working together. Your kids and teachers are lucky to have you!
ReplyDeleteJennifer
Jennifer, Thanks so much for reading. I needed to be sure I went on record before the release of the scores. The teachers in my bldg are a special group. I know I drive them crazy (I drive myself crazy) and I still make many mistakes, but in the end, we are a team. Teams support each other.
DeleteThis was a great way for teachers to share their expertise. A unique way to use meeting time that was helpful to everyone. Can't wait to do it again this year!
ReplyDeleteLisa,
ReplyDeleteAs a lead learner, you are moving in the right direction with your staff. Your growth mindset will take you far because you are focused on improving teaching and learning in a positive way. Enjoy the start of school.