South Avenue Elementary reports gains in reading, expands IST and literacy supports

Principal Amendola presented South Avenue Elementary’s academic and community work at the Jan. 28 Beacon City School District board workshop.

Amendola said ELA proficiency rose from 41% to 54% and level-4 proficiency increased from 13% to 18%. "Our proficiency last year for our ELA test was 54%," she told the board, and she described use of screening and diagnostic tools (HMH, I Ready) to identify "pushables" (students near the next proficiency band) and "slipables" (students at risk of falling a level). The principal said grade-level data dives and one-on-one meetings with a literacy specialist are core parts of the improvement work.

Amendola credited a full-time math AIS teacher for gains in math and described instructional supports including foundations coaching, ICT co-teaching support and literacy-focused professional development. She said the school’s Instructional Support Team (IST) has held more than 110 meetings as of Jan. 20 to address academics and social-emotional needs and to coordinate referrals.

The principal highlighted community-building activities and grant-funded enrichment: a 10-week dance residency, student council projects, family engagement nights and efforts to streamline newsletters via a shared Canva link. Parents and board members praised the work; one parent thanked the school for engagement activities that create lasting memories for students.

Board members asked clarifying questions about the IST model and whether other elementary schools share the practice; staff said IST or RTI-style practices are used districtwide though South Avenue’s model is particularly developed. The presentation concluded with board appreciation and a request for follow-up as budget planning continues.

Amendola said the school will continue data-driven interventions and report back as part of the district’s budget and program planning process.