The SE-L Schools have performed ‘as expected,’ while laying the foundation for positive change under the new and more highly critical evaluation system being rolled out by the Ohio Department of Education. Specifically, the SE-L Schools performed consistently in areas that had previously been reported in the past, having earned an overall grade of ‘B’ on the basis of graduation and a ‘C’ for student performance. On a positive performance note, the district received an ‘A’ for Value Added in special education and hopes to expand on this progress to ensure that all students, at a minimum, acquire one years' growth in their academic achievement. Comparatively under the previous evaluation system from which the state is now departing, the SE-L Schools would have retained its current district ranking of ‘Effective.’
“We knew that new and more rigorous standards were coming, and despite the higher thresholds, the SE-L Schools held its own,” said Superintendent Linda N. Reid. “We don’t want the community to think we are satisfied, however, tougher standards that are not yet factored in are still coming our way, while our goal remains continued growth from one year to the next.”
The district’s ‘B’ in terms of graduation is primarily linked to the graduation performance at Brush High School, and includes both a 4-Year graduation rate and a 5-Year graduation rate. The district’s ‘C’ in student achievement, represents the Performance Index, which is a calculation of student performance on the Ohio Achievement Assessment and Ohio Graduation Test.
These grades have recently been released to school districts amidst an era of substantial reform in the state of Ohio. In response to the State of Ohio ranking 11th among the 50 states in the quality of its education system, with only a grade of C+, statewide leaders felt it was time to set higher expectations for its students, teachers and school districts. In 2010, Ohio adopted a new, more demanding set of standards, to ensure that students would be well-prepared for college. With these new district grades this year, the SE-L Schools, along with all schools statewide, are experiencing the impact of those higher standards. Students must achieve even more to earn the same grades under prior year’s standards, and consequently, so do entire districts.
“Under this new system, a high school diploma will mean even more,” continues Superintendent Reid. “Because of the increased rigor from the state, students will be pushed to succeed at a higher level, and ultimately, become more enriched citizens of the future.”
More information about the district’s recent evaluation will be forthcoming through district communications channels. You can always contact the schools at 216-691-2000 or by visiting us on the Web at http://www.sel.k12.oh.us/.