Community Corner
Royal Oak Middle School ACT Explore Math Average Composite Scores Top National Average
School improvement efforts produce results.
Royal Oak Middle School (ROMS) students are making great progress in mathematics learning according to ACT Explore test results.
The Explore Math composite score for 8th Grade ROMS students rose one full point this year, from an average score of 15.6 to 16.6. This is the largest year to year increase in any subject area in the school’s recent history. Nationally, the average math composite score for 8th grade students is 15.5.
Not only did the overall scores at ROMS increase, but also the gap between subgroups in the building was reduced by over 50%. This is important as it indicates that all students are being positively impacted by improvement efforts.
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“We are pleased with these results,” said Superintendent of Schools Shawn Lewis-Lakin. “They provide evidence that efforts at both the district and building level are having a positive impact.”
The Explore Math Test, given to 8th grade students each fall, measures mathematical reasoning. Questions on the test cover four areas—knowledge and skills, direct application, understanding concepts, and integrating your understanding of concepts—in pre-algebra, elementary algebra, geometry, and statistics and probability.
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Student performance in mathematics has been a focus for the district. As a result, after an analysis of data and research, the district adopted Connected Math as the instructional resource for grades 6-8. “Connected Math creates math classrooms that foster student engagement in mathematics through problem solving and inquiry,” explained Sarah Olson, district Director of Instructional Services.
At the building level, the advisory period that has been a part of the ROMS schedule for many years was redesigned this year to provide targeted learning for all students. Advisory is now called LEAP, an acronym for “Learning, Enrichment, Advancement, and Principles.” According to David Simpson, Assistant Principal at Royal Oak Middle School, “This initiative involves the entire staff working to support all students to achieve the highest possible levels of learning in mathematics.”
“This is a great example of the success which is possible when we use student achievement data to drive improvement at the district, building, and classroom levels,” noted Lewis-Lakin.
