“ELKHART I.S.D. ATTAINS HIGHEST MARKS ON TESTING”

            Recently released STAAR test and accountability ratings show that Elkhart I.S.D. has once again attained scores among the state’s highest for the 2015-16 school year.  The four major classifications of scoring for Texas Education Agency accountability standards include Student Achievement, Student Progress, Closing Performance Gaps, and Postsecondary Readiness.  Results of standardized tests, known as the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, identify Elkhart Schools as “Meeting Standard” in all sixteen of the sixteen scored areas. 

            The state tests students at various grade levels beginning at the third grade level in the areas of English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.  At the High School level, these tests are referred to as “End of Course,” and must be passed as a requirement for meeting full graduation standards.  

            “I am extremely proud of our students and staff for these accomplishments,” stated E.I.S.D. Superintendent Dr. Ray DeSpain.  “A great deal of hard work goes into attaining at such a high level of achievement. I have always said that the two keys to earning high scores are teachers preparing students, and students performing.  Such was obviously the case again this past school year”, DeSpain added.

            District-Wide, Elkhart scored twenty three scale score points above the state standard in the area of Student Achievement.  Elkhart High School and Elkhart Intermediate were rated at an “exemplary” level, according to DeSpain.  Elkhart High School earned “Distinction Designations” from the state in the core subject areas of English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, and also in Closing Performance Gaps and Postsecondary Readiness.  Elkhart Middle School earned Distinction Designations in Science and Social Studies, as well as Closing Performance Gaps.  Elkhart Intermediate received the highest attainable number of Distinction Designations awarded, earning Distinction Designations in English Language Arts, Science, Mathematics, Student Progress, Closing Performance Gaps, and Postsecondary Readiness. 

            “These outstanding scores are an indication of our commitment to providing the highest quality education possible for our students.  I am equally proud of the fact that we offer a wide range of courses in career and technology ‘certification areas,’ such as welding, nursing, and career preparation fields.  We try to extend well-rounded educational opportunities to all students.” added DeSpain.