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District posts gains in English assessments, flags math performance; curriculum changes and tutoring program planned
Summary
District reported a rise in NJGPA English scores and a slight decline in math readiness; staff described course-sequence realignment, expanded tutoring funded by a grant and upcoming state changes to adaptive testing that will create a new baseline.
District staff presented results from state and district assessments and outlined curriculum and program changes intended to raise student readiness, particularly in mathematics.
A staff presenter explained the district’s NJGPA and related test results for the 11th-grade cohort. The presenter said district English language arts (ELA) graduation-readiness rose from 87% in 2024 to 92% in the most recent assessment, above statewide averages. Mathematics showed a different pattern: the district’s graduation-ready percentage was 64% in 2024 and 63% most recently, a 1-point drop while the statewide rate moved higher.
The presenter described targeted responses: continuation and expansion of a high-school tutoring/mentoring program funded by grant money, a realignment of course sequencing in algebra and geometry to better prepare students earlier, and summer curriculum updates tied to new state mathematics standards. The district said it has already received grant funds to continue and expand tutoring this year and will direct additional resources to math-focused supports.
Staff also warned that the New Jersey Department of Education plans to field-test a new adaptive version of state assessments in late September–October. The presenter said training for districts is scheduled later and that the new format will create a new baseline that limits direct year-to-year comparisons with prior state exams.
What was said about attendance: the presentation linked chronic absenteeism to test performance and noted the district will target attendance as part of academic improvement plans. Staff pointed to improved attendance and adult connections for students who participated in last year’s tutoring program and said those students showed gains in ELA.
Next steps: The board was told the district will implement curriculum changes this year, continue the tutoring program with the new funds, monitor fall district diagnostics as predictors of spring results, and seek additional guidance from the state on the adaptive assessment rollout.
