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District touts growth but names several ATSI/low‑performing schools; board to align school improvement plans
Summary
Surry County Schools staff presented district accountability results showing a top‑20 statewide ranking in overall performance despite mixed proficiency and growth across schools; several schools were designated ATSI (targeted support) or low‑performing for particular subgroups and will require school improvement plans and family notification.
Surry County Schools staff reviewed the district’s 2023‑24 accountability data at the Sept. 16 meeting, highlighting both strengths and areas that require targeted improvement.
A district presenter told the board that while the system is not perfect, it remains a high‑performing district overall: "Surry County Schools... is still a high performing school system," the presenter said, noting the district ranked about 20th out of 115 local education agencies in North Carolina on overall academic performance.
Staff walked the board through how the state’s accountability model weighs proficiency (roughly 80% of the composite) and growth (roughly 20%), and used Rockford Elementary as an example: Rockford recorded modest proficiency but very strong growth, which combined into a composite that yielded a C grade. The presentation emphasized that high growth can substantially change school outcomes even when proficiency lags.
The board was briefed on EBOS, the predictive growth model that uses prior test history to generate projected scores and a growth status (exceeds/meets/does not meet). Staff cautioned that the models are a single data point and should be used alongside other indicators.
Staff also disclosed ATSI (Additional Targeted Support and Intervention) and low‑performing school designations tied to subgroup performance. Schools named for ATSI or low‑performing status included Central Middle School, Gentry, Meadowview, Pilot Mountain, Franklin, and Surry Central High School for certain subgroups (students with disabilities and multilingual learners). Staff explained ATSI is a three‑year designation requiring school improvement goals, targeted coaching, and family notifications.
Board members asked about the causes of subgroup differences and about how to monitor progress; staff said improvement plans, NCSTAR alignment and targeted interventions will be presented at an October work session and that required parent notification letters would be sent as mandated. No formal votes were taken on improvement plans during the meeting.
