|
Listen to this article here
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
GREENWOOD DIST. – In a promising turn for Tulsa Public Schools (TPS), preliminary results from the spring Oklahoma State Testing Program (OSTP) reveal a 5-point leap in the percentage of students achieving Basic, Proficient, or Advanced scores in English Language Arts, marking a significant victory after a year of focused literacy efforts.
“Following a year of intensive focus on literacy, Tulsa students achieved an overall 5-point improvement in the percentage of students scoring Basic, Proficient, or Advanced on the English Language Arts assessment,” Dr. Ebony Johnson, superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools, shared with The Black Wall Street Times.
Elementary, Middle, and High School Students Achieve Significant Gains in ELA and Math Proficiency Rates in State Testing
In a remarkable achievement for the district, elementary students in grades 3-5 have made significant strides in their proficiency rates. Recent data reveals that English Language Arts (ELA) proficiency rates surged by 16 points, while Math proficiency rates increased by 5 points. Additionally, there was a 9-point improvement in ELA for students scoring Basic and above, highlighting a concerted effort to boost literacy skills among struggling readers.
Middle school students (grades 6-8) also demonstrated notable progress. The data shows a 12-point increase in ELA proficiency rates and a 4-point rise in Math proficiency rates, reflecting the success of targeted interventions and instructional strategies.
High school students, specifically those in the 11th grade, showed positive gains as well during state testing. Their proficiency rates in ELA rose by 3 points, while Math proficiency rates saw an impressive 8-point increase. These improvements were measured through the College and Career Ready Assessments (CCRA), which include the ACT, underscoring the district’s commitment to preparing students for post-secondary success.
“While assessment results do not represent all the work happening in our school communities, this growth helps demonstrate the effort of our students and entire team this past year. We are pleased, but certainly not satisfied – there is much more greatness to come from Tulsa Public Schools,” Dr. Johnson adds.
Looking Ahead: Tulsa Public Schools Outlines Ambitious Goals for 2024-25 Academic Year
As the 2023-24 school year concludes, the district reflects on its focused efforts to enhance student learning. Key priorities included ensuring core classroom instruction was consistent with state standards. Additionally, they focused on teaching and assessment practices. Robust intervention programs at elementary and middle school levels bolstered literacy development. They also aimed to improve conditions to support learning, emphasizing attendance.
TPS’ 2024-25 Pathways to Opportunity board goals outline a bold vision aimed at accelerating student learning improvements. The district says the goals are designed to sustain and build upon the progress made over the past year.
However, district officials emphasize that a single state testing score is not a comprehensive measure of student achievement. To gain a fuller understanding of student learning, they say it’s essential to consider various factors. These factors include access to grade-level content, attendance, and course grades. Furthermore, metrics like graduation rates, reading and math growth, and college readiness are crucial for evaluating student progress.
The district says that their multi-faceted approach ensures a more accurate and holistic picture of student achievement on state testing. This comprehensive view guides future educational strategies and interventions.