Posted by Heather
After finalizing presentations, each work group reported on its work. First up was Data, with Annie giving an abbreviated version of the presentation she prepared for the work group. Her presentation focused on WASL participation and proficiency rates and SAT scores for African American and White students. She also discussed a slide demonstrating how characteristics impact performance on the Grade 10 Math WASL. Trish added the recommendations of the work group, namely that teachers demonstrate mastery of EALRs and a GMAP-like accountability system for schools be developed. Deborah Wilds asked about 10th grade WASL score data including retakes (it did not but the data is available). Mona asked about a better data system, and the recommendation of a P-16 data system was added.
The Communications & Community Engagement work group was next. They began by presenting on town hall meetings, which will occur. The goals of the town hall meetings are to 1) educate and inform and 2) provide a call and response opportunity. The town hall meetings will be held in Pierce County (October 14 at Evergreen State College, Tacoma campus), King County and Eastern Washington (Spokane and/or Tri-Cities). James Smith asked about including questions about teacher quality in the town hall meetings. Mona asked about including outreach strategies beyond town hall meetings (other outreach methods are included in the communications plan).
Then we heard from the Best Practices work group. The work group has drafted a report which I don’t yet have a copy of. The draft addresses a P-16 framework, early learning, teacher quality, curriculum, and higher education. The work group also wants to meet with district superintendents. The group will also recommend that the definition of basic education be rewritten to require equity for all students, closing the achievement gap be a requirement for accreditation from State Board of Education, an oversight advisory committee be created to monitor the implementation of this group’s plan, and a cultural competency be added to teacher certification requirements.
The committee transitioned into a review of the draft outline of the interim report and gave suggestions to staff on organization.
After some other administrative items, the meeting was adjourned.
