Oregon's new education model stresses the importance of individual student academic growth. It also identifies and recognizes Model Schools with proven success that can be replicated in other schools. We're proud that Naas Elementary School has been honored with a Model School designation - rated in the top 5% of Title 1 schools in the state.
One size does not fit all
Naas has been invited to a statewide seminar to learn how they might support other high poverty schools around the state. Principal Kimberly Braunberger says, "We work diligently to meet the unique needs of our community. One size does not fit all, but we are certainly willing to help other communities create a hybrid model to meet their specific needs." According to Braunberger, the enthusiastic educators at Naas are the main factor in student success. "Naas teachers and support staff are open to change and have embraced education practices that have proven results." Naas is a Title 1 school with an intense focus on pushing extra support directly into the classrooms. This model allows students to fully participate with their peer group and classroom instruction. Attitude is also a key factor, and the mantra at Naas is: "every child is the responsibility of every adult. "
Braunberger has been with the Oregon Trail School District since 2004, serving as principal at both Naas and Cottrell for four years. In 2011 the two schools merged, which Braunberger feels was a positive move for both communities. "It presented an opportunity to refocus, reprioritize, and most importantly, to meet a broader parameter of student needs. We've combined the best of both communities, with positive outcomes for our students."
The new Oregon Growth Model
Oregon's new accountability system was approved last month by the U.S. Department of Education, relieving the state from many of the mandates of the No Child Left Behind law. While still focusing on reading, math and graduation rates, the new rating formula incorporates growth among individual students as well as growth among students in historically underserved subgroups. Individual schools are ranked Level 1 through Level 5, with 5 being the highest level of distinction, based on the aggregate of "all students" growth and achievement. .
Oregon Trail Schools ranked as follows, based on their percentage of overall achievement:
- Level 5: Naas (90%), Kelso (92.5%), OTPA (90%)
- Note: Kelso and OTPA are not Title 1 schools, so although they ranked at the highest level, they could not receive the state's Model School designation.
- Level 4: Sandy Grade (86.9%), Welches Elementary (71.3%), Firwood (71.7%)
- Note: 100% of Sandy Grade 4th and 5th grade students made improvement over last year's assessment scores, moving them to within 3.1% of Level 5 designation!
- Level 3: Boring Middle (60.6%), Cedar Ridge Middle (69.4%), Welches Middle (62.5%), Sandy High (65.1%)
Next steps
The continued professional development of our staff is crucial to student success, and through the Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) at each of our schools, our educators are collaborating and focusing on strategies for improved instructional practice. The Early Release professional development program is entering its second year of full implementation at all Oregon Trail schools this fall, allowing teachers one hour per week to collaborate, review data, discuss and plan for individual student needs, and share successful instructional practices.
Superintendent Aaron Bayer is excited to begin his second year as the District's top education leader. "Oregon Trail School District is moving forward. Our educators are working hard to increase student success at all levels. It is a pleasure to work with exceptional professionals and serve the Oregon Trail Community." Among the many bright spots - academic achievement is on the rise, a new high school is opening, the International Baccalaureate primary school is expanding, and an on-line education program has been implemented.
