This is your Board Meeting Brief for the September 20th School Board Work Session.
Superintendent Dr. Crystal Edwards and Chief Academic Officer Sam Coleman presented data from last spring’s SOL scores and provided strategies to close gaps in student achievement. This presentation highlighted the incredible work by LCS staff and students over the last year as they continue to grow out of the challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Virginia Department of Education defines the achievement gap as the difference in academic performance between student groups, and LCS examined performance results grouped by racial identity, students identified as economically disadvantaged, students who receive special education services, and students who receive English Learner services. Between 2021 and 2022, SOL scores in both reading and math increased in all categories. In fact, LCS score improvements outpaced state averages in many categories.
To further increase student learning and to close gaps in achievement, LCS will strategically use student data, increase quality instructional coaching and professional development, and align effective instructional strategies. In addition, LCS plans to foster greater collaboration across departments—particularly among Curriculum & Instruction, Student Services, Special Education, and IT—to best support teachers and students. Moving forward, LCS will also take an even more proactive approach in regards to resource allocation, especially with grant funding, in order to address additional challenges that are ahead.
See more about the discussions, actions, and information by viewing the 9-20-2022 School Board Work Session on the LCS YouTube channel and the updated documents on the 9-20-2022 Agenda.
The next School Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 4 at 5:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the School Administration Building.
Thank you for supporting our LCS mission: Every Child, By Name and By Need, to Graduation!