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McKeesport reports gains in K–12 assessments and plans to expand journalism to include broadcast component
Summary
District officials reported midyear NWEA growth in multiple grades after implementing new K–2 reading and secondary curriculum changes and announced a reworked journalism course that will add a broadcast journalism component and a planned student studio.
McKeesport Area School District officials told the board April 10 that curriculum changes and targeted support produced midyear assessment gains in elementary and secondary grades, and that the district plans to expand its high school journalism elective to include broadcast journalism.
Dr. Moles reported that the elementary English language arts implementation and a new K–2 reading program produced midyear benchmark improvements: kindergarten proficiency rose from 22% to 36%, first grade from 29% to 37%, and second grade from 36% to 49%. Administrators said fewer students are performing below benchmarks following targeted supports and instructional alignment.
On the secondary side, the district credited work with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit and new instructional coaching for exceeding midyear NWEA growth goals at Founders Hall and in the high school. Dr. Moles said South House surpassed its ATSI goal of 45% with 52% growth in ELA and 55% growth in math; Founders Hall exceeded its CSI goal of 40 with 51% ELA growth and 53% math growth. The district said these figures reflect midyear NWEA assessment results and school improvement metrics.
Separately during new business, district staff described a planned revision to the journalism course. The course will shift from a half-credit English elective to include broadcast journalism. Administrators said an extracurricular activity currently led by an English teacher is operating as a pilot, and the district aims to develop a studio space (working with facilities staff) to support broadcast instruction. The revised offering will be open to grades 9–12 and is being included in scheduling for the next school year.
The district also noted expanded supports for new teachers, increased instructional walkthroughs, and professional development on reading, science and math. No formal vote was required for the curriculum updates reported at the April 10 meeting; some curriculum items are part of ongoing implementation and professional development.
