Board adopts alternative accountability model for Phoenix Academy, favoring growth and persistence

The Granville County Board of Education voted April 14 to adopt a state-approved alternative accountability model for Phoenix Academy.

District presenters explained that Phoenix Academy, as an approved alternative school with its own school code, qualifies to use a modified state accountability model. Under the recommended Option B, school achievement counts for 20% of the performance measure, growth counts for 60%, and student persistence (retention/continued enrollment or reintegration) counts for 20%. Presenters said the model better reflects the school’s focus on keeping students engaged and showing progress rather than relying primarily on proficiency rates.

A district presenter described why the alternate model was recommended: "With this alternative model, it's 20% [achievement]. The growth is 60%. ... And then student persistence means did they stay in school?" The board discussed practical implications, including how Phoenix Academy reports assessment results and enrollment counts to the state; administrators said Phoenix does not report graduates as graduating from Phoenix — students’ diplomas remain tied to their base schools — but academic results while enrolled at Phoenix are assigned to the academy for accountability purposes.

Board members approved Option B by motion and voice vote. One board member noted the model's emphasis on growth and persistence and said he wished the growth-weighting were used more broadly across the district.

What to expect next

Administrators said they will submit required documentation to the state and will continue to report Phoenix Academy’s progress under the Option B rubric; the board must vote annually to confirm the model as part of its accountability responsibilities.