Over Easter break I got a note saying that our CST tests had arrived. I guess they are unavoidable, unfortunately. It's always an anxious time of year (especially for a new principal!) as it seems everything we do gets boiled down to this one test. We've made some pretty big changes, especially in the middle school, as a result of our last few years' test, and I am really looking forward to see if they pay off. Specifically, we've worked to eliminate the combination classes during core instruction, and increased the instructional block for mathematics. Since middle school math was our lowest area, hopefully these changes will help bring those scores up. Next year, I want to continue emphasizing math and work on implementing some whole-school programs to help bolster our students in the lower grades so they are better prepared for the middle school program. Also, we will look closely at implementing benchmark assessments to be able to know how students are progressing throughout the school year to better alter our course of instruction during the year.
I know that not all the good things our teachers and staff are doing for the kids will show up on these tests, and that is one of the biggest complaints about them. I try to keep everything in perspective, as I know the tests are important as a measure of student progress, but should not be the thing that dictates our every action. Trying to find that balance and keeping the big picture in focus is a difficult job!
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