Blue Ridge continues to make academic gains

Blue Ridge continues to make academic gains
Blue Ridge Elementary Principal Kim Doepker reported to school board members students continue to make academic gains since the district volunteered to implement a school improvement plan after being placed on the states lowest performing schools list in spring of 2010.

Doepker credits the staff for embracing change and working as a team to improve. She thanked the school board for support.
This summer more than 200 students are involved in summer school. Blue Ridge kindergarten students will begin in early August to prepare for the upcoming school year.

Academic Gains
- 45 kindergarten students at or above grade level in reading (14 previously)
- Math scores soar (based on Aimsweb math computation assessments)
- 97% of kindergarten students reached or exceeded intermediate level - WLPT II (86% prior to dual language program)
- 68 out of 73 students in grades 3-5 passed WLPT II writing test (level 3 or 4)
(WLPT is the only assessment of reading, writing, speaking, and listening knowledge and skills used in Washington State for English language proficiency for English language learners)

Keys to Improvement
- Improved communication and professional development and collaboration sessions
- Platooning (students rotate to different teachers for core content subjects)
- Dual language program
- Math coach (Jeremy Hubbard)