In The LOOP
Dr. Lori Blaylock
Interim Superintendent
Kaufman ISD
Another round of STAAR testing is coming to a close and I am reminded of a story about a young man who wanted to try his hand at farming.He decided the first thing he needed to do was fatten a pig.He could just imagine the smell of farm fresh bacon!Every day he took the pig to the feed store and placed it on the scales but the pig never gained weight.Finally, the store owner said, "Son, weighing a pig doesn't cause it to get fat…feeding it does." In light of the many days of state testing each year, we might say, "Testing a student doesn't cause them to learn…teaching them does!"Luckily, Kaufman ISD is full of teachers, administrators, and PARENTS that place teaching and learning first.Thank you for your positive attitudes during this busy time.
In speaking with parents and community members I am reminded that not everyone is familiar with the state testing process.Here are a few of the most common questions and answers.
Q: Do the scores "count?"
A: Yes, the district and each campus will receive a state and federal accountability rating based on the test scores in August.The Texas Education Agency just released a new accountability system that details exactly how these ratings will be calculated.
Q: When will we get the results?
A: The district should receive STAAR results by the end of May.End-of-Course results will not be available until June 7.The student report will clearly state whether each student met the passing standard or did not.
Q: Does my child have to pass to move to the next grade or to graduate?
A: In grades 5 and 8, the Math STAAR and the Reading STAAR are used to determine promotion.If a child fails either or both of these during the first administration, they will receive tutoring and will have two more chances to pass the STAAR.In grades 11 and 12, our students must pass all exit-level TAKS tests in order to graduate.At this time, students must also pass 15 End-of-Course examinations.We are hopeful that the State Legislature will reduce the number of exams required for graduation.
I hope this information helps you understand STAAR testing.Thanks for sharing your children with us!
Kaufman Archery Summer Camp - June 17-20
