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Cartwright district remains a C as leaders point to growth gains and K–3 reading priorities
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Summary
Cartwright Elementary District received a C for the 2023–24 A–F calculation. District leaders emphasized student growth measures, K–3 reading, English learner supports (5,000 EL students) and the Starlight Park dual-language program.
Cartwright Elementary District received a C in the state—s 2023–24 A–F school grading system, district administrators told the governing board during a presentation on letter grades and recent reading and math results.
Acting Superintendent Steve Watson opened the presentation by urging context for the results: "One data point does not define a student, and it doesn't necessarily define a classroom," he told the board. The district emphasized growth as a major component of the formula: 50 percent of a school—s letter-grade calculation is based on student growth, with proficiency and other indicators making up the remainder.
Marco Ruiz, director of educational services, described how growth is calculated from year to year and how the district uses interim assessments to predict state-test performance and target interventions. Ruiz said growth is measured by comparing a student—s tested-year score to peers statewide and noted the district uses predictive "mimic" assessments to guide classroom interventions.
Administrators highlighted several positive signals: CW Harris, Glenel Downs, Holiday Park and Manuel Pena earned the full 50 points available for growth. The presentation also noted strong AzELa (English learner) growth at Estrella Middle, Spitani, Raul Castro, Sunset and Tomahawk; the district has roughly 5,000 students identified as English learners and staff said EL-specific growth contributed points to some schools— letter grades.
The board and administrators agreed on a central priority: strengthen K–3 foundational reading. Watson and Ruiz said aligning instruction, common formative assessments and teacher supports at every grade level will be key to improving proficiency over time. Ruiz also described the district—s Starlight Park dual-language program (50% Spanish instruction, 50% English) for K–5 and said the district plans to add a sixth-grade dual-language offering next year.
Board members requested deeper analysis and plans for replicating successful practices at higher-performing sites. Administrators said they are meeting with principals and building a plan focused on Tier 1 instruction, targeted interventions and professional development for teachers.
