Sup’t. talks test ‘debacle’ with board

BY STACI WILSON

Susquehanna Community Superintendent Bronson Stone described last school year’s PSSA test a “debacle” at the Wednesday, Sept. 16, school board meeting.

With major changes to the math testing, scores on the standardized test plummeted across the state.

Stone said, “I think (the Dept. of Education) should send the scores directly to the parents so the Commonwealth would have to explain how a student’s score fell from advanced to basic or below basic.”

The superintendent told the board the testing was rigorous and, in his opinion, the change to Common Core on the test had not been phased in correctly by the state.

Stone noted that more eighth grade students passed the Keystone algebra test – a high school graduation requirement – than the PSSA middle school math assessment.

Stone explained that with the Common Core math, students are conceptually understanding what’s “behind the math.”

“But to throw that all on one test with no transition… it’s not a problem with the PA Core math standards but the way it was implemented and pushed down the throats of 500-plus school districts that I don’t agree with.”

The district is also actively seeking substitute teachers. Stone said the number of available substitutes is low this year because many have moved on to permanent jobs.

The board approved the Comprehensive District Strategic Plan for the 2016-19 school years.

Stone said that when the plan is approved by the state, the district will move forward with its implementation.

The board also approved the Title 1 school-parent compact for the year. Stone said the compact spells out what the program is. He also noted that Title 1 money is used school-wide.

The All Hazard plans in both the elementary and high school buildings was revised to show changes in both personnel and the chain of command in the district.

Tenure was granted to Gina Gliniecki, Bridgette McKennas and Lindsay Van Gorden.