Board approves locally tailored accountability models for three alternative schools

The committee approved district recommendations that allow the three alternative schools to use locally tailored accountability models that emphasize student growth and persistence over the standard school performance formula.

Staff explained North Carolina allows alternative schools to select among three statewide options: the standard model (80% achievement/20% growth), a preset model (for example 60% growth/20% persistence/20% achievement averaged over three years), or a locally developed option that must include measures of student achievement and growth and be supported by research submitted to the state. The district recommended option C for the three schools to better capture each school’s mission and populations.

Howard Learning Academy, Ramsey Street and Algebray Wilkins each designed an option C model that includes a heavy growth component (at least 50%), school achievement, student persistence and site‑specific measures such as safety/conduct (Howard) and parental involvement (Algebray Wilkins and Ramsey Street), staff said. Presenters noted the models were developed with principals and program leaders and supported by research submitted to the state for approval.

Board members voted to approve the models so the district can continue using the current baselines and measure change from the 2023–24 baseline year. Staff said they will submit documentation and research to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as required for any option C elements.

Quote attribution: all quoted material comes from staff and board members recorded in the committee transcript.