Memorial Middle School aims to boost English proficiency from 22% to 35% by June

During the Greater Albany Public Schools Regular School Board Meeting on February 24, 2025, significant discussions centered on student behavior management and academic improvement strategies at Memorial Middle School. The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment and enhancing student performance.

A key focus was the progress made by the behavior team, which includes a behavior specialist, a dean, and a counselor. The team reported a substantial decrease in the number of students on behavior plans, dropping from 23 at the start of the year to just 5 currently. This reduction reflects the team's strategic approach to identifying and addressing behavioral issues, aiming to help students succeed academically and socially.

Principal Ken Gilbert presented the school's vision of supporting every student through meaningful engagement, emphasizing the importance of cultivating positive relationships and employing effective teaching strategies. He outlined Memorial Middle School's primary improvement goal for the year: to increase student proficiency in English language arts from 22% to 35% by June, with a long-term district goal of reaching 67% by 2027. This ambitious target is based on a thorough analysis of various data sources, including state testing results and attendance records.

To achieve these goals, the school plans to implement guided instructional walkthroughs, targeted interventions based on student performance data, and a focus on explicit teaching methods. These strategies aim to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes, ensuring that all students are prepared for high school and beyond.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to both behavioral and academic challenges, reflecting a commitment to continuous improvement and student success. As the school year progresses, the effectiveness of these initiatives will be closely monitored, with the potential for further adjustments to enhance educational outcomes for all students.