Ridge Elementary principal reports test-score gains and outlines expanded learning plans

At the July 14 meeting Principal Tricia Baker Dan presented Ridge Elementary’s academic results and described classroom priorities and an expanded-learning rollout the district approved.

Baker Dan summarized the school’s California Dashboard performance, saying the school made "a significant growth in the LA of 25.7 points, moving closer to on average our students meeting standard in ELA," and reported 14.9 points of math growth. She described targeted instructional practices—standards-based planning, writing across the curriculum and a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS)—and noted improvements for students with disabilities. The principal also highlighted programs to improve attendance, including an incentive program modeled on a locally themed recognition.

Trustees pressed for detail about whether subgroup gains could move the school into the Dashboard “green” band; Baker Dan explained that the dashboard weights both current performance and growth, and that growth can shift a school’s color band even when distance-from-standard remains.

Staff also described the district’s expanded learning opportunities program (ELOP), which the board approved (item 7.14). The program will provide a 9-hour school day option, up to 30 intersession days, dedicated enrichment teachers at sites and new attendance/registration tracking integrated with the district’s Aeries system. Staff said the district took direct oversight of some after-school services previously managed by a city partner and will monitor waitlists and staffing ratios as registrations open.

What happens next: the district plans a mid-year update on ELOP implementation and said it will provide additional registration and capacity reporting once school-year enrollments are finalized.