Morning Bell: ISTEP+ Results, Gary Administrative Cuts, Turnaround Schools

Charter ISTEP+ results among lowest – “One posted score losses, one posted score gains and one school’s scores remained relatively the same. The scores at the three schools were among the lowest in the state. “ The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette

ISTEP+ RESULTS: Local middle schools have ‘work to do’ — “Middle schools this fall will begin to track even more diligently the progress of each student so they are able to step in and help out as soon as weaknesses are discovered.” The Muncie Star Press

Gary trims school administration – “The board approved eliminating 14 administrative positions and, so far this year, a reduction in force of almost 170 teachers. Board members are making tough decisions to meet stifling budgetary demands, one member said.” Gary Post Tribune

EDITORIAL: Cutting brass polishes Gary schools’ reputation – “Gary’s traditional public schools face competition not only from private schools but also from charter schools and, starting this fall, from the state as well. The Indiana Department of Education took control of the newly named Theodore Roosevelt College and Career Academy and hired EdisonLearning to operate it. Roosevelt is among the first to be taken over by the state under Public Law 221, Indiana’s school accountability law.” The Times of Northwest Indiana

Turnaround Schools Struggle With Staffing, Time, and Climate – “Interesting tidbit: Finding staff for turnaround-model schools was so hard that, in the second year of the grant, Prince George’s County, Md., opted instead for the “restart model,” which requires schools to become charters or partner with an education management organization.” Education Week

School is too easy, students report – “Millions of kids simply don’t find school very challenging, a new analysis of federal survey data suggests. The report could spark a debate about whether new academic standards being piloted nationwide might make a difference.” USA Today