On Thursday, October 20, New Fairfield’s Board of Education (BOE) heard a presentation on last year’s standardized test results. The data points, both straight results and comparison, were delivered through a variety of graphs and charts. Always one to look at the positive, Assistant Superintendent Ms. Julie Luby emphasized that “It was a hard bunch of years, the pandemic time, but we have actually fared well.” She pointed to data that showed growth as a bright side, while straight scores were a mixed bag, with some areas continuing to need serious intervention, such as SAT readiness. Luby reassured the board that, “we have looked at this data, we know what is going on, and have a plan in place.”
Luby explained that the schools have, in fact, deeply analyzed the test results and are or will address the areas that need improvement. Looking at language arts, math, and science across the district, there are clearly some pandemic effects that continue to linger. Luby reminded the board that many students were remote for extended periods over the last two years, which certainly impacted their education. Regarding underperformance for English Language Arts at the elementary level, Ms. Alise Misuraca said that masks likely impacted learning, which is reflected in the scores. Math scores continue to need improvement across the district, but administrators are hopeful about the growth that is occurring. “We’re sort of back in the ballgame,” Luby said, following up on steep declines during the pandemic. With poor math performance an issue for many years in the district, Luby pointed to positive growth as an indicator that the course corrections are steering the students in the right direction. SAT scores were down significantly, however, which Luby explained is on par with many in the state. Science scores were stronger, though it was clear that the pandemic years affected showing at the high school level.
Following each subject’s data, the principals spoke about interventions in place to address the findings. At all levels there are interventionists to target instruct students who are struggling. Similarly, coaches are working to ensure that teachers are supported with needed professional development that will support consistency. The elementary Head Principal Ms. Allyson Story explained that interventions are set across the board, including a focus on ELA and math foundation skills and through mini lessons. Middle School Principal Ms. Karen Gruetzner said they are using an ELA workshop model in which students have access to a variety of texts and can choose reading material that is of interest to them. She also said, “Teachers are reading aloud to students, facilitating rich conversation and talking to students about their reading through reading conferences.” At the high school, Principal Mr. James D’Amico said faculty is focused on literacy skills, embedding assessments, and the corresponding instruction that is aligned, not just to the standards, but also to those college readiness expectations that are assessed on the SAT. Offering math daily to students who are not meeting benchmarks continues to be a key strategy at the high school.
Board Chair Mr. Dominic Cipollone was the most vocal member regarding the results. He pointed out that the ELA numbers drop from fifth to sixth grade and said, “I think we really need to do a better job of that transition. And I think our fifth and sixth grade teachers need more planning time together to identify where the gaps are.” He also believes that all students should have math every day. Ms. Stephanie Strazza said of ELA, “what sticks out is the earlier learners, particularly those in grade two in 2022,” reflecting that their early years in school would have been impacted. Scores show that only 50% of these students are reading on benchmark levels. Story explained that for these and other students they have purchased Bridge the Gap, a phonemic awareness program. There is also additional professional development being offered to higher grade elementary teachers on phonics and other skills that are typically the purview of the lowest grades.
In the end, Cipollone said, “if there’s a throughline K to 12 and everyone is speaking the same language, you will see significant improvements in growth and in achievement. So, just keep at it and keep pushing forward.”
Director of Business and Operations Ms. Carrie DePuy gave a brief update on construction, saying that the high school building schedule is “on track” and discussions have begun regarding where 12-month employees will be located next summer. They will no longer be allowed in the current high school when school lets out but will not yet be able to occupy the new school.
In his Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Kenneth Craw highlighted some of the exciting work that is ongoing for the new STEAM program at the elementary level with Mr. Giuliano, which includes video production. He said it was impressive to witness the collaboration among students in the program that requires a high level of skills, planning, technology prowess, and more. He also commended Pupil Personnel Director Ms. Katherine Matz’s recent presentation to New Fairfield’s Board of Finance. Finally, he noted that it was Bus Driver Appreciation Week and said how thankful he and the community are for their hard and dedicated work.
The next regular New Fairfield Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 3, 7:00 p.m.
By Sarah Opdahl