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9/1/2006: 2006 SASD PSSA Adequate Yearly Progress

As required by the federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), Pennsylvania released the Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) ratings based on Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) scores in math and reading.

Souderton students continued to show improved performance on the PA Reading and Math standards as assessed by the 2006 PSSA tests. Eighth and eleventh grade students improved significantly their overall reading and math achievement. The number of students achieving at the “basic” and “below basic” levels was reduced, and the number of students performing at the “proficient” and “advanced” levels increased. To meet targets, 54 percent of the students must be proficient or advanced in reading and 45 percent proficient or advanced in math.

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Charles Amuso stated, “In both reading and math, more students scored at the “advanced” level than any other level. This year’s improved performance builds upon gains achieved in previous years and at other levels.”

Additionally, the SAHS also increased its graduation rate--building upon an already high level.

Souderton’s eighth and eleventh grade special education students did not meet achievement targets specified in NCLB. The special education student subgroup’s performance in math did not increase enough to meet adequate yearly progress (AYP) standards established by the state. Despite eighth graders meeting 14 of 15 performance targets, and eleventh graders meeting 12 of 13 performance targets, requirements of the state system of assessment have designated the both Indian Crest Junior High School and the Souderton Area High School as not meeting AYP. Hence, both schools have been given a warning to improve their performance.

Mr. Jack Silva, Director of Secondary Education said, “Teachers, building administrators, and district administrators have already begun the efforts to review and increase achievement of the special education subgroup so that it, too, will show the steady improvement shown by the vast number of Indian Crest and SAHS students.”

“We are proud of the students and teachers who have stepped up their concern and effort to meet the AYP challenge,” he said.

Commenting on the AYP status of the elementary schools, Mrs. Gail Ryan, Director of Elementary Education said, “All seven Souderton elementary schools met the AYP status in all 9 categories. All our scores in grades 3, 4, and 5 are well above the state averages.”