Board weighs switching benchmarks (SAVIS vs MAP), considers STMath and grant to fund screeners

The Colts Neck Board of Education discussed assessment tools and supplemental math programs during its June 4 meeting, weighing tradeoffs between district-aligned benchmarks and nationally normed testing.

Board member Mrs. Camera presented an inquiry comparing SAVIS benchmarks (no additional cost and high alignment to district curriculum and NJSLA) with MAP testing (nationally normed growth data but additional cost and professional development needs). She said she was “leaning toward us going this direction” — a reference to SAVIS — while noting the need for teacher input and consideration of timing for any changeover.

Administrators and the curriculum director (Dr. Erica Reynolds) discussed next steps: gather teacher feedback, evaluate timing for implementation, and present a fuller analysis at a future Committee of the Whole meeting. The board emphasized that any move should preserve instructional quality and align with the district’s stated goal of Blue Ribbon recognition.

The board also reviewed supplemental math tools for targeted subgroups. Administration described trials of STMath (emphasized for ELL and IEP students because it minimizes reading demands) and a comparative look at TouchMath. The district indicated it may propose a limited rollout next school year pending further review.

Separately, the district applied for a New Jersey Department of Education Focus Grant aimed at universal screening tools; the Department’s designated award for the district is $4,150 to support screeners, training and a teacher trained in Orton‑Gillingham methods. The application was described as an allocation that will be awarded if the district meets the program’s criteria.

No formal decisions were adopted; board members asked for additional teacher input and a timeline for any proposed implementation.