Nine Howard County middle and elementary schools failed federal proficiency goals in reading and math, and two of the schools missed the mark for the second year in a row, according to state data released Wednesday.
“This is the most we have ever had to deal with,” said Portia White, Howard?s coordinator of testing.
“As we move toward the target we are supposed to meet, the [annual measurable objectives] are getting tougher.”
Proficiency is measured through adequate yearly progress, or AYP, a set of annual goals students must reach in reading, math and other academic indicators. The federal No Child Left Behind Act requires all students be proficient by 2014.
Murray Hill and Oakland Mills middle schools were identified as schools in need of improvement because they missed the goals for two years, according data from the Maryland State Department of Education.
“We are trying to hit a moving target,” said Cindy Dillon, principal of Oakland Mills Middle School. Last year, the school missed the mark in math, but this year, the goals were not met in reading for blacks, and students with free/reduced meals and special education.
“I think everyone knows that when you divide your efforts, it does make it complicated,” Dillon said.
She said a modified version of the assessment test for those with learning disabilities, which is expected for this school year, would help more special education students meet the goals.
The school also has the support of the school system to identify each student?s needs and develop plans to assist them, she said.
“I feel confident we can overcome this,” she said.
Murray Hill Principal Donyall Dickey said state data help school officials tailor individual student plans to ensure they are succeeding.
“I think Murray Hill and Howard County have had the plans in action for years to forecast student group performance and have safeguards in place,” he said.
