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District leaders highlight strong math and science results, flag third-grade ELA and high-school literature for focus
Summary
Dr. Henrich presented 2023-24 assessment results showing above-average math and science proficiency across grades, growth on PVAS measures, but areas of concern in third-grade ELA and high-school literature keystone proficiency; the district plans curriculum review and targeted interventions.
Dr. Henrich presented the district's 2023-24 assessment results on Nov. 3, telling the board that mathematics and science proficiency are strengths across most grade levels while third-grade English language arts and high-school literature present clear opportunities for targeted work.
The presentation covered PSSA results (Grades 3'8), Keystone outcomes (algebra, biology, literature), and growth measures (PVAAS). Dr. Henrich said math proficiency was "really proud and excited about that" and described science proficiency as "knocking it out of the park." By contrast, she and administrators noted persistent learning gaps in third-grade ELA related in part to pandemic-era learning disruptions.
Dr. Henrich said the district is pursuing a stronger, articulated MTSS (multi-tiered system of supports) to provide early interventions and enrichment, and she noted plans to revisit K'12 ELA curriculum next year to better align early-grade reading instruction with the science of reading research. Administrators described adjustments already made in elementary scheduling and departmentalization intended to strengthen early instruction.
At the high school level, district staff reported that algebra and literature keystone proficiency results showed room for improvement. The board discussed whether the literature Keystone should be administered at the end of 11th grade rather than when students currently take it (end of course in 10th grade); administrators expressed concern that moving the test to 11th grade could reduce opportunities for students to retake and be counted in the cohort used for state reporting.
Dr. Henrich also shared student growth (PVAAS) results showing that most cohorts met or exceeded expected growth in reading and math, though the district identified a specific concern with fifth-grade math growth. The district said it will continue to use multiple data sources (state assessments, i-Ready, unit tests, benchmarks) and targeted interventions, including tutoring and flexible small-group instruction. The district will bring further curriculum and intervention proposals to the board as it works on a comprehensive plan.
