Edgar P. Harney Spirit of Excellence Academy Principal Eileen Williams briefed the board about the school’s grade on Monday night during its regular meeting, telling members that the school gained 13.2 points to receive a baseline score of 71.2, a C on this year’s scale, she said.
A baseline score averages the previous two years’ test scores and weighs in other factors such as attendance and dropout rates.
Williams’ report was met with little board discussion and no questions. During its 20-minute meeting, the board did not vote on anything other than to accept the agenda, the minutes, reports from two administrators and adjournment.
Williams said she hopes her students will be able to score an 80 on their LEAP tests this spring. Last year, under a different grading formula, the school bore an F from the state – a grade that was also based on a baseline score average from two years.
Board member Kirk Reasonover asked that Williams present formal teacher reviews in an executive session at the January meeting. School administrators must formally evaluate teachers once a year. Typically this information is private, but can be reviewed by a board in a closed meeting.