Verified EESAC Meeting Minutes

Approval of minutes: Mrs. Robledo called the meeting to order at 8:20 a.m. The minutes from September 28, 2010 were reviewed and approved.

Principal’s message: Mrs. Stroleny gave the message because Mrs. Gonzalez was attending a principals’ meeting. Today’s focus was the No Child Left Behind data report.
SIP Review
The 2009-10 demographic data has not changed much but there has been a rise in the percentage of economically disadvantaged students from 28.2 percent to 29.5, compared to 68 percent district-wide and 53.5 percent statewide. We also have 56.6 percent female population and 43.4 percent male. FCAT writing, science, reading, and mathematics scores are disaggregated by demographics. Each subgroup with a sizeable population needs to meet the standards for the school to achieve Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). The faculty will examine data to ensure equity in learning for all subgroups. In writing, 100 percent of students scored 3 or better, compared to 94 percent (district) and 95 percent (state). In reading, 96 percent of students scored level 3 or better compared to 59 percent (district) and 62 percent (state). In math, 98 percent of students scored level 3 or better, compared to 66 percent (district) and 68 percent (state). In science, 88 percent of students scored level 3 or better compared to 37 percent (district) and 44 percent (state). We compare student performance to the previous year’s scores at Carver, not state or district averages. All subgroups also did well. Mrs. Szmulewicz asked about the lack of data on the black subgroup for Carver, and Mrs. Stroleny explained that for a subgroup to be counted for AYP it must comprise a minimum of 100 students or 15 percent of the total population. Mrs. Planell asked about the percentage of students who are not tested, and Mrs. Stroleny said that our data shows that 100 percent are tested, although we often have one student who misses the test. Our English Language Learners take the CELLA test in addition to the FCAT, but this population is not large enough to be counted for AYP; still, we monitor progress closely. The NAEP test was administered at randomly selected schools but has not impacted Carver in recent years. FCAT results for subgroups are disaggregated by levels. Data shows that economically disadvantaged students mirrored the rest of the population in reading and math; the percentage of black students scoring level 5 was lower than the whole population’s. In science, there was a greater discrepancy with level 5 scores: 17 percent of white students achieved level 5, while 5 percent of Hispanic students reached this level, and all black students scored level 3 with none scoring at levels 4 or 5. Mrs. Robledo commented that the content of the science category may influence the differences in subgroup scores. Mrs. Stroleny said teachers need to examine interim assessment data closely to ensure that each group masters these concepts. Mrs. Planell commented that the female population scored lower in science. Mrs. Stroleny said the males often score lower in reading, and we have tried to adjust our language arts curriculum to make it more gender equitable. We met our goals for a safe environment. We have three new staff members, according to district criteria. More than 50 percent of our staff have advanced degrees; 100 percent or our teachers are in-field; and 1.5 percent of our classes are taught by teachers not highly qualified. Carver received a school grade of A and made adequate yearly progress, as all subgroups met their achievement goals. Presently we are administering interim exams in science, math, and reading. Reading Plus has been a successful strategy, as 51 percent of students have increased one grade level, 25 percent have increased two levels, 5 percent have increased three levels, and 1 percent has increased four or more levels. The Harvest Social is on November 19, and Science Fair is on November 22. Midterm exams begin on January 13.

Official Business: Mrs. Robledo explained that the Florida Recognition Program monetary reward is $67,795.27 for this year. She explained that the same formula as in the past was used this year and that the plan has been approved by the faculty. Mrs. Holian and Mrs. Planell asked how the money is spent and Mrs. Robledo said it is distributed as bonuses for all staff members, not just teachers. The distribution of funds was then approved by the committee.

Open Forum: Mrs. Fernandez reported that the Math Counts team will participate in a competition on November 20. Mrs. Gomez reported on the Hispanic Luncheon, calling it a “great success,” adding that “student involvement was a great experience.” Mrs. Planell commented that her son enjoyed the experience. Mrs. Robledo commented on the documentary film, “Waiting for Superman,” which she said glorifies charter schools. She reported that in response, FEA has selected Everyday Heroes and she was selected as one of them. “We don’t wait for superman,” said Mrs. Robledo. “We have heroes in our schools doing amazing things every single day.” Mrs. Robertson-Viglucci said Florida ranks 49th nationwide in funding of public education

Adjournment: Mrs. Robledo adjourned the meeting at 9 a.m.