Board of Education News:  Programs That Make a Difference

 

 

          At the October 11, 2007 meeting, the “Program Highlights” section focused on Coventry’s student test results (CMT, CAPT, SAT).  Mr. David Petrone, GHR Principal and District Testing Coordinator, presented the CMT results looking at grades 3 – 8.  He noted areas of improvement from last year and areas that will receive curricular focus.  He indicated we are continuing to make progress and it is a slow and steady growth.  Mr. Petrone talked specifically about GHR.  They are continuing with programs that work such as the Reading at Home Program, DRA testing, Expanding Horizons, and using the test score data at the beginning of the year to drive the objectives in teaching.  New initiatives too, such as the Rising Star Program, a before school reading program, will be implemented. 

          Ms. Michele Mullaly, CNH Interim Principal, talked about the direction the middle school is going.  She stated that ABC is a great resource, as it allows teachers to collaborate together producing curriculum.  It reduces the disparity in curriculum because everyone is on the “same page.”  They have begun vertical teaming on math and had their first joint meeting with the high school.  Also, she hopes to use student portfolios in the near future to look at student skill development. 

          Mr. Petrone addressed the Grade 10 CAPT results.  92.2% of the students are at, or above, “Proficient” in mathematics, 95.1% are at, or above, “Proficient” in science, 89% are at, or above, “Proficient” in reading, and 91.2% are at, or above, “Proficient” in writing.

          Mr. Troy Hopkins, CHS Principal, spoke about the SAT scores.  He said they are always looking for new initiatives to improve test scores.  He continued that the departments are analyzing the CAPT scores and tweaking curriculum as appropriate.  One of the priorities is watching freshmen closely before they fail a course and a study seminar will be added temporarily for extra help for those students.  He noted that the PSATs will be taken by all sophomores this year for the first time in addition to the juniors.  Dr. Bernard said that Coventry has applied for a grant which will focus on improving student achievement with the use of advanced placement courses.  In closing, Mr. Hopkins spoke to a partnership that has been created with the Booth & Dimock Library to make online SAT preparations available.

          Tune in to Munivision, Channel 13, to learn more about “Programs that Make a Difference.”