School Board reviews NECAP results

During a lengthy presentation on New England Common Assessment Program (NECAP) results, the Shelburne Community School (SCS) Board heard that local students continue to score well on the standardized tests, outpacing many other Vermont school districts.

The presentation looked at an array of factors, including how socioeconomic levels and fluency in English impact test scores. NECAP results for Shelburne’s third through eighth grade students mirrored both national and state-wide results. The exams are given to measure proficiency in math, reading, and science.

Following the discussion, Board members listened to a presentation on academic progress at the school’s middle level, showing examples of reading passages and algebra equations a typical seventh grader would be expected to complete.

Principals Allan Miller and Pati Beaumont highlighted SCS’s notable achievements. Miller informed the Board about a display on bullying and harassment in the middle school area. The school’s Wellness Committee also continues to promote a healthy lifestyle; students walked to school recently as part of the innovative.

The Board also acknowledged and thanked a number of SCS teachers and staff who are retiring or resigning. Among the names was teacher Patrick Halliday, who now chairs the Burlington School Board.

Members made brief mention of a program that will likely have an impact on schools statewide during the 2015-16 school year. Newly-hired educators will contribute $1,000 per person for retirement and health care costs. Concerns about funding for retiring teachers’ pensions prompted the new program.

The Board also noted that universal pre-kindergarten will be offered in the state.