Douglas schools hit federal benchmark

Douglas County teachers may pat themselves on the back, according to the findings of the Adequate Yearly Progress Report, a report card on the nation's schools issued by the federal government.

On Sept. 11, at 3 p.m., Brian Frazier, director of assessments, Grants, and Special Programs for Douglas County School District, will present to the Douglas County School District Board of Trustees the conclusions of this year's report.

"Our schools individually and the district collectively met or exceeded the Adequate Yearly Progress Report target rates for English, language arts and math. In other words, all schools made adequate yearly progress towards the goal of having all students 100 percent proficient on the state assessments by 2013-14," Frazier said.

Federal officials base their reports on results of state-issued, standardized tests given to students throughout the year. The standardized tests in Nevada include the Criterion Reference Test and the High School Proficiency Test. Both tests measure student progress in basic learning areas such as reading, writing and math.

According to Frazier, gauging the results of such tests can be complicated, but eventually can be effective in measuring progress. Frazier said that test results from Douglas County this year have warranted an adequate ranking for the district and its schools by the federal government, meaning students have achieved expected levels of comprehension and competency in tested subjects.

However, since its enactment, teachers around the country have criticized No Child Left Behind for its emphasis on teaching to the test, and its alleged neglect of less test-friendly subjects like art.

Frazier said the environment of federal oversight and extensive standardized testing has been challenging for teachers. But teachers in Douglas County should be proud of the progress they've made.

"Each school staff has done a wonderful job," Frazier said. "Teachers have been working very hard."

However, positive marks in the Adequate Yearly Progress Report don't necessarily mean more federal funding for local schools, according to Frazier, they do demonstrate Douglas County's ability to meet and even exceed federal standards.

For more information go to http://nevadareportcard.com or http://www.doe.nv.gov.

-- Scott Neuffer can be reached at sneuffer@recordcourier.com or 782-5121, ext. 217.