Do Test Scores Tell the Whole Story?

Educators are making a difference in the lives of students all over Ohio through a wide variety of educational settings.  While test scores can be one indicator of progress, it is impossible to gauge success without considering the individual students and their experience, both past and present. A recent visit to a community (charter) school that focuses on STEM education showcased innovative ideas, a staff that cares, and students who are thriving.

Recently, School Choice Ohio partnered with National School Choice Week on a project to feature the variety of school options around the country.  We chose to highlight Explorers Academy of Science and Technology, a community (charter) school located in Toledo, Ohio with a specific focus on STEM.

There is a Difference

It took only a few minutes on campus to see that there is a difference at that school, even before classes began for the new school year.  It was refreshing to arrive at a school to find every single staff member happy and excited to start another school year, especially on a sunny day with a full schedule of professional development.

The Interviews

In order to tell the story of Explorers Academy for our feature project, it was important to interview all of the stakeholders, including board members, school administrators, faculty, staff, parents, and most importantly, the students.

While speaking to a variety of the school’s community members, it became clear that everyone was on the same team to help students learn, grow and develop in all areas; educationally, socially, and emotionally.  What was most impressive was that the administration and staff were all excited about their jobs.  It was clear that each person cares very deeply for the students and families they serve.

The team of leaders, educators, and support staff understand their very clear purpose, united in the mission that was laid out when the school was established.  School administrators and board members are on premise to support, encourage and lead.  Everyone knows the students and families by name.  The students are seen, and it is all making a big difference in each child’s education. 

During multiple interviews with a variety of faculty and support staff, a conversation with one of the teachers really stood out.  When asked about the previous school year with her class, she beamed when she shared that at the start of the school year, almost all her students were “in the red”, a phrase meaning that students were well below grade level in their knowledge and skill levels.  She went on to tell us that at the end of the school year, EVERY student in her class had moved out of the red and had shown vast improvement that was well beyond the expected growth in a single school year. 

That made me think.  Would the test scores for her students from the last school year be considered a negative without proper context and an evaluation of individual student progress?  Are test scores an indictment on a school’s success or a student’s future?  Or should test scores be a tool used to determine how a student is improving and progressing?

What does success really look like?

When Explorers Academy was established, the school’s founders had a definitive vision, plan and mission.  The goal was not only to provide a quality education, but also to envision the student well beyond their years at Explorers Academy.  Leadership did not just jump in to quickly start a school.  They took the time to evaluate and plan for success.  Enrollment has grown to over 300 students in just four years.  The growth can and should be attributed to a successful school model, a clear understanding of the students and families they serve, staff that truly cares, and parents who recognize what the school is doing to inspire their children.

Context is key to evaluating both the proof of a school’s concept as well as student success.  Most students have transferred to Explorers Academy of Science and Technology from other schools.  Many of their kids were struggling when they arrived on campus.  If we focus solely on test scores, it could be a misrepresentation of what is happening in the lives and education of students.  Instead if we evaluate each student’s individual progress, it paints a much clearer picture of the achievements in their education.

The true success of each educational option should always come down to the students.  How do they feel about their school?  Are they thriving?  Has the school’s mission and vision changed a student’s future? 

One of the students at Explorers agreed to an interview with his mom.  I knew the student when he was much younger and just starting school.  The transformation in him was remarkable.  He was happy to share his experience, the activities he was involved in, and most importantly, he was excited to share his plans and interests for the future.  His mom found the right environment for him to succeed.

That is what school choice success is all about.

To learn more about Explorers Academy of Science and Technology, visit https://www.explorersacademyst.com

Want to learn more about all of the educational options in Ohio? visit http://www.scohio.org