Del City Elementary reports significant student performance improvements in reading and math

During a recent meeting of the Midwest City-Del City Schools board, Del City Elementary Principal highlighted significant developments and achievements within the school, emphasizing the importance of educational growth and diversity in the student body.

Principal Amanda Bennett, along with her team, presented an overview of the school’s demographics, noting a diverse population of 483 students, primarily consisting of African American, Caucasian, and Hispanic/Latino students. This diversity is seen as a strength, contributing to a rich learning environment.

The presentation included a review of state testing results from the past two years, showcasing notable improvements in student performance. In English Language Arts (ELA), third graders saw a 22% increase in proficiency, while fourth and fifth graders experienced increases of 13%. In mathematics, third graders improved by 11%, fourth graders by 1%, and fifth graders by 14%. These results reflect the school’s commitment to enhancing educational outcomes.

Bennett outlined specific goals set for the current academic year, focusing on individual student growth. For instance, the aim for students testing below benchmarks was to achieve a one-grade-level increase by year-end. Kindergarten teachers targeted letter recognition and sounds, while fifth-grade teachers aimed for 80% of students below the benchmark to improve by one grade level.

A significant aspect of the meeting was the announcement of a $200,000 grant awarded to the school under the Targeted Support and Improvement (TSI) program. This funding has been allocated to enhance instructional quality through professional development. The school engaged a consultant to refine essential standards and develop common assessments, ensuring alignment across grade levels. Additionally, a Conscious Discipline consultant was brought in to improve behavioral responses, fostering a proactive approach to student behavior.

The school also invested in a math intervention program, Happy Numbers, and allocated funds for substitutes to support the professional development of emergency-certified teachers. This initiative aims to provide these teachers with valuable instructional experiences, enhancing their teaching practices.

Overall, the meeting underscored Del City Elementary's dedication to fostering an inclusive and effective learning environment, with a clear focus on student achievement and professional growth. As the school continues to implement these strategies, the community can anticipate ongoing improvements in educational outcomes and student support.