School Report Highlights 58 Percent Growth in Kindergarten and First Grade Students

In a recent Board of Education Workshop in Missouri, educators highlighted significant growth among kindergarten and first-grade students, with 58 percent demonstrating typical to aggressive growth in their reading skills. This data, derived from the FastBridge assessment, indicates that while some students are excelling, there is a notable dip in performance from kindergarten to first grade compared to the previous year.

The discussion emphasized the importance of recognizing individual student progress, particularly those who are "almost there" in their learning journey. Educators showcased a data wall that illustrated the progress of first graders, noting that even students who moved from a low-risk category to a "some risk" category still exhibited substantial growth. For instance, one student improved their score from 27 in the fall to 64 in the spring, a remarkable achievement that underscores the potential for success among all learners.

During the meeting, a question arose regarding benchmarks for growth, with educators explaining that typically, 50 percent of students are expected to show average growth. The district aims to exceed this norm, striving for higher percentages of students to achieve typical or aggressive growth.

The workshop concluded with a call to celebrate the progress of all students, regardless of their current risk category. Educators stressed the importance of recognizing and supporting growth, as it plays a crucial role in fostering a positive learning environment. As the district continues to analyze and respond to these trends, the focus remains on ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive academically.