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Midyear tests show strong district growth; math remains the primary focus
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Summary
Assistant superintendent reported April 13 that the district’s midyear iReady results show median growth at 77%—outpacing national medians—with K–5 momentum strong; PSAT 9 results show ninth‑grade ELA above the College Board benchmark and math trailing by roughly 30 points.
The district’s midyear academic review presented to the school committee April 13 showed positive growth in reading and mixed results in math, with administrators emphasizing coaching and targeted interventions.
Assistant Superintendent presented iReady K–8 growth data showing the district median at 77%, ahead of national medians; most grade levels fall in the highest quadrant for performance and growth. K–5 grades showed especially strong momentum; grades 6–8 maintained high performance but slightly slowed growth before the holiday break. The presenter cautioned that iReady was administered a month early this year for grades 3–8, which can affect year‑over‑year comparisons.
School‑level highlights: Colt Andrews showed a notable 9% ELA increase year over year; Hugh Cole posted a 12% ELA increase and modest math gains; Rockwell improved in ELA but still trails the district strategic goal of 75% proficiency.
At the high school, PSAT 9 (administered in October) produced a mean reading score above the College Board college‑readiness benchmark (mean 864 vs. benchmark 860) and a mean math score below the benchmark (mean 420 vs. 450), a common pattern because many ninth graders have not yet completed Algebra I. Administrators outlined interventions including coaching cycles, co‑teaching, instructional rounds and partnerships with external organizations to maintain growth momentum and address math gaps.
The assistant superintendent emphasized aligning school improvement plans, streamlining interventions, and expanding grade‑level planning time to ensure targeted acceleration blocks and fidelity to chosen programs.

