School board hears accountability system update

The Christian County School Board heard a presentation about the new accountability system for rating schools and school districts that will be instated in Kentucky.

The new system does away with the distinguished, proficient or novice ratings—instead, schools and the district will receive star ratings, with five stars being the highest possible rating. District Assessment Coordinator Tracey Leath says that’s the simplest part about the new system, as the measurements, indicators and how it functions is very complex.

Many of the evaluation indicators are familiar, including student proficiency in math, reading, writing and other courses, graduation rate and academic or career readiness. Leath says a new indicator focuses on closing the achievement gap between different student groups, and that will play a large part in overall score.

A district that has an achievement gap, even an improving one, will not receive a high rating according to district attorney Jack Lackey. Board member Tom Bell says the public needs to be aware of both the difference between this district and others, and the hard work that students put in every year.

Another new indicator is for ‘opportunity and access’, which will deal heavily with student learning in the arts and the availability of those courses to students. Things are subject to change with the system, as many scores and measurements are still being determined by the Kentucky Department of Education.

Transportation Director Mike Brumley was recognized at the meeting for receiving the statewide Transportation Director of the Year Award.