Washington School Dramatically Improves Reading and Math State Test Scores

Neely O'Brien Elementary, Kent, Washington (WA)

Abstract:

DETAILS: School Profile: 640 students in grades K-6; Demographics: Rural, Free/reduced lunch: 58%; Special education: 17%, Transitional bilingual: 17%; Race/Ethnicity: American Indian/Alaska Native: 3%, Asian/Pacific Islander: 19%, Black/African American: 17%, Hispanic/Latino: 24%, White: 37%; Measure: Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL); Duration: 1997-2004.

RESULTS: This school adopted Accelerated Reader in 1995, Star Reading in 1996, Accelerated Math in 1997, and later added Star Early Literacy. Educators at Neely-Obrian implemented these progress-monitoring tools during an extended, after-school learning program. As part of their implementation, they received professional development training from Renaissance, incorporated best practices, added an extensive Accelerated Reader library to each classroom, and partnered with the city library. From the 1997-1998 school year to the 2003-2004 school year, the percentage of students meeting or exceeding state standards doubled in reading and more than tripled in math. In addition, student behavior improved, and parent/community involvement and approval increased.

REPORTING EDUCATOR: John Eads, instructional technology specialist.

The full report is available online.

Publication Date:
06/05/2005



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