North Brunswick School Board Discusses Student Performance Gaps, Approves District Improvement Plan | LocalLens (2024)

The meeting began with a detailed presentation on student assessment performance, highlighting the results of the New Jersey state assessments in English Language Arts (ELA), Math, and Science for students in grades 3 to 9. Mrs. Mercedes Chang reported that, although there were slight improvements in scores compared to previous years, the district’s performance remained below the state averages. The average scale scores for ELA and Math were 739 and 733, respectively, both increasing by two points from the previous year. The Science score saw a three-point rise to 159. However, these increments were insufficient to meet the state standards, and significant disparities were noted among different student groups.

Chang’s analysis revealed that while 52% of seventh-grade students achieved proficiency in ELA, only 28% of third graders met the proficiency standard. Disparities extended to demographic groups, with Hispanic students showing low proficiency levels, nearly a quarter remaining in the lowest performance brackets. The Asian student population performed the best, with only 5% at the lowest level and 26% reaching the highest level. Students with disabilities showed significant challenges, with 44% at the lowest level of proficiency. English language learners also faced substantial hurdles, with 52% failing to meet proficiency standards.

The board discussed various strategies to address these challenges. Programmatic changes included expanding high school academies and introducing high-impact tutoring for 11th-grade students, specifically targeting the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJ GPA). Emphasis was placed on professional development for teachers, particularly in phonics for English Language Arts teachers, to better support struggling readers. The board also acknowledged the need for instructional differentiation and hands-on teaching methods that align more closely with assessment formats.

Next, the board addressed the NJQSAC monitoring review results. The district scored 78% in instruction and program, below the required 80%, mandating the creation of a District Improvement Plan. The plan aims to enhance student achievement through engaging instruction and improved attendance, aligning with ongoing initiatives. The compliance scores in other areas were notably higher: 96% in fiscal management, 93% in governance, 98% in operations, and 100% in personnel.

Chris Harry, the director of personnel services, presented on the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) assessment for students with significant intellectual disabilities. This assessment spans multiple subjects and grades, emphasizing individualized progress over comparative achievement. Data showed that many students were in the “emerging” category, with some moving into “approaching” or “target” levels. The focus remains on tailoring instructional approaches to meet each student’s unique needs.

The board also discussed educational strategies for students with severe cognitive disabilities, integrating life skills into their learning to prepare them for post-high school life. This conversation aligned with the Department of Education’s emphasis on transitional planning for special needs students. A recent survey on student performance in transition programs will be shared in the next Education Committee meeting.

The administrative report highlighted community support for students, including donations from local organizations and individuals, such as backpacks and school supplies. The successful start of the school year and positive turnout at back-to-school nights were noted. Assemblyman Joe Danielson and Chick-fil-A were acknowledged for their contributions.

Student representatives Megan Keef and Mia Montero provided updates from the student government organization (SGO), detailing successful events like Club Fest and upcoming activities such as pep week. Keef noted the SGO’s goal of raising $5,000 for a local charity and the Latin American Club’s initiatives for Hispanic Heritage Month.

The Human Resources Committee reported on personnel changes, including staff resignations, retirements, and new hires, emphasizing ongoing recruitment efforts. The Business Operations Committee acknowledged a parent group’s donation of a covered bench and discussed contracts for pool rentals for the swim team.

Educational updates included the introduction of virtual tutoring for grades 5 through 8 and in-person tutoring for elementary students. The completion of the ESSER grant and allocation of Title III funds for newcomer programs were also highlighted. The board celebrated the achievement of 112 high school students receiving AP scholar certificates and outlined plans for district walkthroughs to observe instructional practices.

Policy updates included revisions to curricular content to comply with state standards, changes to attendance policies to accommodate civic events and long family vacations, and updates to the suicide prevention policy to include staff training on recognizing and responding to self-harm threats.

The public comment section featured representatives from the North Brunswick Township Education Association expressing gratitude for the approval of a new three-year staff contract, emphasizing a commitment to collaboration in providing quality education.