Santa Rosa scores among top 5 schol districts in the state
May 24, 2007
Consistency.

That's the key to Santa Rosa County students again placing among the top five school districts in the state in reading, math and science scores on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, according to at least one local School Board member.

"We're always striving for excellence," Diane Coleman said. "I am proud of the progress our students have made and the work our teachers have put in to make that happen."

FCAT reading and mathematics scores for grades four though 10 and science scores in grades five, eight and 11 were released Wednesday. The number of Santa Rosa students performing at or above grade level was 10 to 19 percentage points higher than state averages across the board.

"The increases we've shown in reading, math and science demonstrate we are on the right track, the kids are producing well because of solid instruction, and parents are complementing that instruction," said Tim Wyrosdick, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction.

Overall, the district had gains or remained the same in most categories for students performing at or above grade level. However, scores dropped by one point in sixth-grade reading and ninth-grade math, two points in seventh-grade reading and three points in ninth-grade reading and fourth-grade math.

Superintendent John Rogers said an internal assessment will determine where to focus more attention.

"We will decide if we need to make curriculum changes or provide more resources," he said. "We have to be proactive in what works."

Despite some dips, the district's overall performance was solid, Rogers said.

Milton High School moved up five points in ninth-grade reading, two points in 10th-grade reading, one point in ninth- and 10th-grade math, and 10 points in science.

"The teachers and parents worked hard to bring up the scores, and I'm pleased to see it paid off," Principal Lewis Lynn said. "We placed an emphasis on science and math, bought new software, expanded the reading lab and implemented a math lab."

Guy Thompson, whose son, Ryan, will be a senior at Milton High next year, believes the school is on its way to earning an "A" grade from the state.

"It makes you feel good that you are sending a child to a school that is making the progress they are at Milton High," he said.

Bagdad Elementary School had strong gains in science and fourth-grade math, with scores increasing 21 and 25 points, respectively.

"It's teachers being focused and motivating the children, and the children doing their best," said Larry Brewton, Bagdad principal. "The train is headed in the right direction."

Starting at the top and staying there is no easy feat, but Santa Rosa students continue to score high, said Jo Ann Simpson, School Board vice chairwoman.

"It shows we are paying attention to the reason for the FCAT and building up our curriculum so our students can succeed," she said.

Published - May, 24, 2007 Carmen Paige
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