PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life APPENDICES Appendix A – Calculation of the Graduation Rate ........................................................................................... 27 Appendix B – Steering Committee Members .................................................................................................... 29 Appendix C – Research and Data Analyses on Which the Action Plan Was Created ................................... 30 Forsyth County Propel Interviews With Administrators Using Research Protocol Forsyth County High Schools (6) Responses to Questions of Research Protocol Forsyth County High Schools (6) Responses to Questions of Research Protocol Compared to Responses to Similar Questions from Selected Forsyth County Middle Schools (3) Percent of High School Students and Middle School Students, 15 Percent or Greater, Who Responded Disagree or Strongly Disagree on the Students’ Perception Survey Eighth Grade Students’ Perception Survey Results High School Students’ Perception Survey Results Percent of Certified Staff, 15 Percent of Greater, Who Responded Disagree or Strongly Disagree on the Certified Staff Survey Certified Staff Survey Results 2009 Enrollment and Demographic Data by Percent Enrollment in Forsyth County High Schools Range of 2009 Demographic Percentages of Forsyth County High Schools Graduation Rates of Forsyth County High Schools, 2004 – 2009, and State Percentages Percentage of Students by Range of Days Absent For All Students and All Subgroups End-of-Course Tests All Students and All Subgroups Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT) Percentage of 11th-Grade 1st-Time Test Takers at Each Performance Level: Comparison for All Students and All Subgroups Advanced Placement Exams Advanced Placement (AP) Course Participation by Race/Ethnicity – Number of Participants and Percentage of Enrollment Average SAT Scores for High School Seniors Average ACT Scores (Composite & Subtest) for All Students at the System, State, and National Levels Exiting Credentials for 2009 High School Completers Post-Secondary Data Su Three-Year Comparison of Graduation Rates Three-Year Comparison of Dropout Rates for Grades 7-12 Three-Year Comparison of Dropout Rates for Grades 9-12 Community Data Al Kids Count Community Data Appendix D – PROPEL Economics of Education Summit Agenda, Relevant Questions, Comments, Participants, and Evaluation.......................................................................................................................... 105 Appendix E – List of Community Participants ................................................................................................... 117 26 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life APPENDIX A CALCULATION OF THE GRADUATION RATE1 How is the graduation rate calculated? To comply with the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB), Georgia has defined a graduate as a student who leaves high school with a Regular Diploma (this does not include Certificates of Attendance or Special Education Diplomas) in the standard time (i.e., 4 years). In prior years, Georgia has reported a completion rate that allowed the inclusion of students receiving a Certificate of Attendance or a Special Education Diploma. Because of the NCLB timeline for reporting information, graduation rate is calculated by using information in the relevant Student Records. The actual graduation rate calculation is a proxy calculation; in other words, the lack of unique statewide student identifiers does not allow for tracking of individual students across the four high school years. The graduation rate reflects the percentage of students who entered ninth grade in a given year and were in the graduating class four years later. The 2008-2009 K-12 Report Card provides the 2009, 2008, and the 2007 graduation rates. A brief description of how the graduation rate for 2009 is calculated follows: 1. Sum the 9th-grade dropouts in 2005-2006, the 10th-grade dropouts in 2006-2007, the 11th-grade dropouts in 2007-2008 and the 12th-grade dropouts in 2008-2009 for a fur-year total of dropouts. 2. Divide the number of students receiving regular diplomas by the four-year total of dropouts plus the sum of students receiving Special Education Diplomas plus the number of students receiving Certificates of Attendance plus the number of students receiving regular diplomas. The number of students represents an approximation to the students in the ninth-grade in 2005-2006 that should have graduated in 2009 and is the denominator in this step. 3. Change the result in step 2 from a decimal to a percentage (example: 0.83 equals 83%). Graduation Rate Formula: Numerator: Denominator: # of students who graduate with regular diplomas # of dropouts in 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th from appropriate years + graduates + other completers What is meant by high school completers, graduates, and exit credentials? Completers are those students who exit from high school with some credential. Some exit with regular diplomas and others exit with either a Special Education Diploma or a Certificate of Attendance. Graduates are a special group of completers. Graduates are students who have met course and assessment criteria. Graduates have completed a high-school program of study with a minimum of 22 units and have passed the four subject areas (English, mathematics, science, and social studies) of the Georgia High School Graduation Test and the Georgia High School Writing Test. Graduates may earn one of several kinds of endorsements: 1 Diplomas with Both College Prep and Vocational Endorsements. Students graduating who have met the criteria of both the college preparatory program and vocational education program and who have passed the assessment requirements. Formal seals of endorsements for both programs are affixed to the high school diplomas for these students. Source: Governor’s Office of Student Achievement, http://gaosa.org/reportinfo.aspx#indicators 27 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Diplomas with College Prep Endorsements. Students graduating who completed a program of study of 22 units in a college-preparatory program and who have passed the assessment requirements. A formal seal of endorsement is affixed to the high school diplomas for these students. Diplomas with Vocational Endorsements. Students graduating who completed a program of study of 22 units of which 4 must be in vocational education and who have passed the assessment requirements. A formal seal of endorsement is affixed to the high school diplomas for these students. Other Completers include those students who exit high school with either a Special Education Diploma or a Certificate of Attendance. Special Education Diplomas. Students with disabilities assigned to a special education program who have not met the state assessment requirements or who have not completed all of the requirements for a high school diploma but who have nevertheless completed their Individualized Education Program (IEP) and graduated in 2009. The diplomas identify graduates as Students with Disabilities. Certificates of Attendance. Students completing high school who met all requirements for attendance and units but did not meet the standardized assessment criteria for a diploma. These students are awarded the Certificate of Attendance in place of the high school diploma. After leaving high school, students receiving the Certificates of Attendance are provided opportunities to retake the required assessments and, if they pass, are awarded the appropriate diploma. 28 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life APPENDIX B STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS Co-Chairs Jason Branch, Principal, South Forsyth High School John Hall, Editor, Forsyth County News Cindy Salloum, Director of Teaching and Learning, Forsyth County Schools Members Julie Benvenuto, Graduation Coach, North Forsyth High School Donna Brinson, Dean of Academic Affairs, Lanier Technical College Stephanie Boylan, Social Services Project Administrator, Forsyth County Department of Family and Children Services Buster Evans, Superintendent, Forsyth County Schools Norma Malone, Teacher on Special Assignment, English Language Learners Transition Center James McCoy, President, Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce Nicole McCoy, Executive Director, Forsyth County Community Connection Tracy Moon, Chair, Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce Bonita Pruitt, Counselor, Liberty Middle School Rebecca Rusk, Chief Clerk of Court, Juvenile Court Eric Silveus, School Resource Officer, Forsyth County Schools 29 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life APPENDIX C RESEARCH AND DATA ANALYSES ON WHICH THE ACTION PLAN WAS CREATED Forsyth County Propel Interviews With Administrators Using Research Protocol Forsyth County High Schools (6) Responses to Questions of Research Protocol Forsyth County High Schools (6) Responses to Questions of Research Protocol Compared to Responses to Similar Questions from Selected Forsyth County Middle Schools (3) Percent of High School Students and Middle School Students, 15 Percent or Greater, Who Responded Disagree or Strongly Disagree on the Students’ Perception Survey Eighth Grade Students’ Perception Survey Results High School Students’ Perception Survey Results Percent of Certified Staff, 15 Percent of Greater, Who Responded Disagree or Strongly Disagree on the Certified Staff Survey Certified Staff Survey Results 2009 Enrollment and Demographic Data by Percent Enrollment in Forsyth County High Schools Range of 2009 Demographic Percentages of Forsyth County High Schools Graduation Rates of Forsyth County High Schools, 2004 – 2009, and State Percentages Percentage of Students by Range of Days Absent For All Students and All Subgroups End-of-Course Tests All Students and Disaggregated Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT) Percentage of 11th-Grade 1st-Time Test Takers at Each Performance Level: Comparison for All Students and Disaggregated Advanced Placement Exams Advanced Placement (AP) Course Participation by Race/Ethnicity – Number of Participants and Percentage of Enrollment Average SAT Scores for High School Seniors Average ACT Scores (Composite & Subtest) for All Students at the System, State, and National Levels Exiting Credentials for 2009 High School Completers Post-Secondary Data Su Three-Year Comparison of Graduation Rates Three-Year Comparison of Dropout Rates for Grades 7-12 Three-Year Comparison of Dropout Rates for Grades 9-12 Community Data Al Kids Count Community Data at the System, State, and National Level Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT) Percentage of 11th-Grade 1st-Time Test Takers at Each Performance Level: Comparison For All Students Advanced Placement Exams Advanced Placement Exams Average ACT Scores (Composite & Subtest) for All Students at the System, State, and National Levels Exiting Credentials for 2009 High School 30 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life FORSYTH COUNTY PROPEL INTERVIEWS WITH ADMINISTRATORS USING RESEARCH PROTOCOL In 2008, the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education commissioned research to determine if there are characteristics, practices, programs, and/or conditions common to schools that have increased the graduation rate significantly and over a short period of time. The research focused on three criteria, high schools that: 1. Had a graduation rate of at least 85 percent in 2008, 2. Increased the graduation rate by at least 10 percentage points over five years, 2004 – 2008, and 3. Sustained the 85 percent graduation rate and 10 percentage point improvement through 2009. The 15 schools that met the criteria for this research are referred to as 85/10 schools. The purpose of this research is to analyze the characteristics, practices, programs, and conditions of Forsyth County high schools and to compare the analysis to the 85/10 high schools. Methodology The methodology of this research follows. 1. After introductory emails from Dr. Cindy Salloum, Director of Secondary Education, Forsyth County Schools, the researcher contacted each of the principals of a Forsyth County high schools. 2. Questions used in interviews with the 85/10 schools were modified slightly and sent to the principal of each Forsyth County high school. 3. Telephone interviews were scheduled with each Forsyth County high school. 4. The interviews were conducted between April 15 and April 28, 2010. Eleven individuals participated in the interviews, including the principal of each school. The same questions were asked of each school, and responses were recorded. The range of the duration of the telephone interviews was 30 minutes to 60 minutes. 5. All responses from the Forsyth County high schools were organized into categories very similar to the categories used in the questions. 6. Responses were analyzed. 7. Results are reported. 8. Subsequently, three middle schools were identified and similar interviews are scheduled and will be conducted, analyzed, and reported. Limitations of the Research This study reports the relative importance of conditions, programs, practices, and characteristics as determined by those interviewed. All Forsyth County high schools were implementing many strategies to improve the graduation rate. However, they were asked to indicate the most important strategies they used overall and in certain categories used in the 85/10 study. One Forsyth County high school is a nontraditional school and another is in it first year of operation. Thus, several questions did not pertain to those schools. School administrators, themselves, were interviewed, sometimes with other staff members. Many were reluctant to focus on their leadership skills. 31 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life FORSYTH COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS (6) RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS OF RESEARCH PROTOCOL TOPICS CURRICULUM Career and Technical Emphasis Strong Focus on Standards Mastery Postsecondary Emphasis Rigor Advanced Placement Courses Relevance Writing Across the Curriculum Curricular Academies ASSESSMENT Benchmarks Edusoft Common Assessments Alternate Assessments INSTRUCTION Faculty Collaboration Review for GHSGT and EOCT Review for SAT & ACT Integrating Technology USA Test Prep Personalized Instruction On-Line Learning AT-RISK STUDENTS RTI (Response to Intervention) Identify At-Risk Monitor Progress PROGRAMS APEX Credit Recovery Remediation Success Plans Saturday School Before and After School Tutoring Night Program Summer Camp Nova Net EXPRESS RELATIONSHIPS WITH STUDENTS Developed through Variety of Strategies TRANSITION 8th to 9th GRADES Uses a Variety of Strategies 9th GRADE Freshman Night/ Festival Freshman Academy NUMBER OF HIGH SCHOOLS ( MENTIONED TOPIC AS IMPORTANT IN INCREASING THE GRADUATION RATE 5 5 5 3 3 2 2 1 5 3 2 2 6 5 5 3 3 2 2 4 3 3 5 4 4 3 3 2 2 1 1 1 6 5 4 1 COMPARISON WITH 85/10 HIGH SCHOOLS Overall = = = = < < < > < Overall = = N/A = > Overall = = = = = = = = Overall < > < = Overall = N/A < < > > < > < N/A > Overall = = Overall < < Overall < = < 32 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life GRADUATION COACHES & COUNSELORS Advisement Program Meet with Students and Parents Emphasized Focused Instruction Coordinate all Programs MISSION, GOALS, & PLANS Focus on Improvement Developed by Teams (Department) AIM (A+ Improvement Model) CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT Teaming/Collaboration Teams Use Data IE2 (Investing in Educational Excellence) Flexibility Common Planning Time Backward Design Plan-Do-Check-Act Informal Processes PAC (Performance Appraisal Cycle) STRUCTURE OF SPACE AND TIME Common Location of Content Areas/Grades Location 9th Grade Flexible Time Hybrid Block Grade 8 ½ - Perhaps RELATIONSHIPS WITH PARENTS Focus on Relationships Visit School Communication Focus Night Meetings PTSO/Academic Booster Club Home Visits ANGEL (Teacher Evaluation) Parents Use School’s Technology CREDE (Program for Hispanic Students) Infinite Campus COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Community Mentors Speakers United Way Rotary Job Shadowing Volunteers in the School Service Learning Internships/Apprenticeships PROFESSIONAL LEARNING County Office Coordination/Opportunities Focus on Instruction Redeliver Expectation Research-Based Learning Community Review PAC and AIM 5 4 4 1 6 3 2 6 6 4 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 Perhaps 6 5 5 4 4 3 2 1 1 1 4 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 6 6 2 2 1 1 Overall = = = = < Overall = = < N/A Overall < = = N/A < = < < N/A Overall < = < < < N/A Overall > = = = = > > N/A > N/A < Overall > > = N/A N/A > = > > Overall = > = = < < N/A 33 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life New Teacher Orientation EXAMPLES OF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING Assessment for Learning Toolkit for Parents Content Literacy Strategies Marzano Depth of Knowledge Content Areas Instruction in AP and IB Strategies LEADERSHIP2 Shared Decision-Making Effective Leadership CULTURE Caring, Family Atmosphere High Expectations Open and Respectful Strong Communication CHALLENGES New Math Curriculum 5th Year Seniors Not Count for AYP Elimination of Career Tech and Special Education Diplomas New Graduation Rule Reduced Number of Electives Too Much Testing and Timing of Testing Growth Demographic Shifts Incorporate Students’ Personal Technology into Learning, i.e. Cell Phones Teaching and Learning Totally Digital (No Texts) Hispanic Population FACTORS USED TO IDENTIFY POTENTIAL DROPOUTS 2 1 = Overall N/A 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 4 3 Overall = = = Overall < = < < < Overall = = = 2 2 1 1 1 1 = < > = > = 1 > 1 1 > = 6 6 4 3 3 2 Overall = Since administrators, themselves, were interviewed, sometimes with others, many were reluctant to focus on their leadership skills. 34 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life FORSYTH COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS (6) RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS OF RESEARCH PROTOCOL COMPARED TO RESPONSES TO SIMILAR QUESTIONS FROM SELECTED FORSYTH COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOLS (3) TOPICS CURRICULUM Career and Technical Emphasis Strong Focus on Standards Mastery Postsecondary Emphasis Rigor Advanced Placement Courses Relevance Writing Across the Curriculum Curricular Academies Strong Connections Classes Advanced Content for Gifted PLUS Classes ASSESSMENT Benchmarks Edusoft Common Assessments Alternate Assessments Create Portfolios Use Formative and Summative Assessments INSTRUCTION Faculty Collaboration Review for GHSGT and EOCT Review for SAT & ACT Integrating Technology USA Test Prep Personalized Instruction On-Line Learning Hands-on Learning Focus on Acceleration AT-RISK STUDENTS RTI (Response to Intervention) Identify At-Risk Monitor Progress PROGRAMS APEX Credit Recovery Remediation Success Plans Saturday School Before and After School Tutoring Night Program NUMBER OF SIX HIGH SCHOOLS THAT MENTIONED TOPIC AS IMPORTANT IN INCREASING THE GRADUATION RATE NUMBER OF THREE SELECTED MIDDLE SCHOOLS THAT MENTIONED TOPIC AS IMPORTANT 5 5 5 3 3 2 2 1 2 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 5 3 2 2 3 3 1 2 2 6 5 5 3 3 2 2 1 1 1 4 3 3 5 4 4 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 3 1 35 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Summer Camp Nova Net EXPRESS RELATIONSHIPS WITH STUDENTS Developed through Variety of Strategies TRANSITION 8th to 9th GRADES Uses a Variety of Strategies 9th GRADE Freshman Night/ Festival Freshman Academy GRADUATION COACHES & COUNSELORS Advisement Program Meet with Students and Parents Emphasized Focused Instruction Coordinate all Programs MISSION, GOALS, & PLANS Focus on Improvement Developed by Teams (Department) AIM (A+ Improvement Model) CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT Teaming/Collaboration Teams Use Data IE2 (Investing in Educational Excellence) Flexibility Common Planning Time Backward Design Plan-Do-Check-Act Informal Processes PAC (Performance Appraisal Cycle) STRUCTURE OF SPACE AND TIME Common Location of Content Areas/Grades Location 9th Grade Flexible Time Hybrid Block Grade 8 ½ - Perhaps RELATIONSHIPS WITH PARENTS Focus on Relationships Visit School Communication Focus Night Meetings PTSO/Academic Booster Club Home Visits ANGEL (Teacher Evaluation) Parents Use School’s Technology CREDE (Program for Hispanic Students) Infinite Campus Student-Led Portfolio Meeting COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Community Mentors Speakers United Way Rotary 1 1 1 6 3 5 3 4 1 1 5 4 4 1 6 3 2 3 3 6 6 2 3 4 2 1 1 1 1 2 3 2 2 2 1 Perhaps 6 5 5 4 4 3 2 1 1 1 3 3 3 1 1 1 4 2 2 1 36 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Job Shadowing Volunteers in the School Service Learning Internships/Apprenticeships Clothes Closet Boxes to Haiti Business Partners Clubs PROFESSIONAL LEARNING County Office Coordination/Opportunities Focus on Instruction Redeliver Expectation Research-Based Learning Community Review PAC and AIM New Teacher Orientation EXAMPLES OF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING Assessment for Learning Toolkit for Parents Content Literacy Strategies Marzano Depth of Knowledge Content Areas Instruction in AP and IB Strategies LEADERSHIP3 Shared Decision-Making Effective Leadership CULTURE Caring, Family Atmosphere High Expectations Open and Respectful Strong Communication CHALLENGES New Math Curriculum 5th Year Seniors Not Count for AYP Elimination of Career Tech and Special Education Diplomas New Graduation Rule Reduced Number of Electives Too Much Testing and Timing of Testing Growth Demographic Shifts Incorporate Students’ Personal Technology into Learning, i.e. Cell Phones Teaching and Learning Totally Digital (No Texts) Hispanic Population FACTORS USED TO IDENTIFY POTENTIAL DROPOUTS Failed Courses CRCT Scores 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 6 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 6 3 3 4 3 3 2 2 2 3 1 1 4 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 2 Since administrators, themselves, were interviewed, sometimes with others, many were reluctant to focus on their leadership skills. 37 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Attendance Behavior Teacher Recommendation Over Age Retained State List of Risk Factors Unmotivated Hispanic Population Analysis of Rising Sixth Graders 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 38 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life PERCENT OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS, 15 PERCENT OR GREATER, WHO RESPONDED DISAGREE OR STRONGLY DISAGREE ON THE STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION SURVEY High School Students Percent Disagree or Strongly Disagree Eighth Grade Students Percent Disagree or Strongly Disagree 5. Discipline procedures are fair and consistent . 24 24 9. My school is preparing me well for what I want to do after high school. 21 14. What I learn in school is or will be relevant to real life. 22 16 16. I like to learn. 16 18 18. My teachers are understanding when students have personal problems. 22 18 21. I am on task and learning during the entire class period. 17 22. My teachers give me the opportunity to redo my work to improve my grade. 22 24. There is trust and respect between students and faculty. 20 26. My teachers use a variety of strategies to keep my classes interesting. 22 27, I have effective two-way ;communication with all of my teachers. 20 28. Teachers keep my parents informed about my school work. 18 20 29. My thoughts and opinions are valued at my school. 30. My teachers and counselors talk with me about my plans for my life after graduation. 33. Middle school prepared me (is preparing me) to be successful in the ninth grade. 26 21 38 27 Item 32. My connections courses are important to me. 18 28 N/A 17 39 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life EIGHTH GRADE STUDENTS' PERCEPTION SURVEY RESULTS Respondents: 1359 displayed, 1359 total Status: Active Launched Date: 05/13/2010 Closed Date: N/A 1. I know what is expected of me in my classes. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 664 49% Agree 565 42% Neutral 93 7% Disagree 10 1% Strongly Disagree 23 2% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 2. 1355 4 Learning is clearly the main focus at our school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 496 37% Agree 614 45% Neutral 183 14% Disagree 34 3% Strongly Disagree 27 2% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 3. 1354 5 I have positive relationships with at least two adults in my school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 619 46% Agree 444 33% Neutral 186 14% Disagree 46 3% Strongly Disagree 54 4% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 4. 1349 10 I am happy at my school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 362 27% Agree 521 38% 40 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Neutral 298 22% Disagree 84 6% Strongly Disagree 91 7% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 5. 1356 3 Discipline procedures are fair and consistent. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 214 16% Agree 417 31% Neutral 408 30% Disagree 184 14% Strongly Disagree 133 10% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 6. 1356 3 I feel safe at school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 471 35% Agree 544 40% Neutral 230 17% Disagree 47 3% Strongly Disagree 56 4% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 7. 1348 11 I feel like I belong at this school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 380 28% Agree 526 39% Neutral 291 22% Disagree 69 5% Strongly Disagree 84 6% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 8. 1350 9 The work at my school is challenging. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 196 14% Agree 506 37% Neutral 457 34% Disagree 128 9% 41 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Strongly Disagree 66 Total Respondents (skipped this question) 9. 5% 1353 6 My school is preparing me well for what I want to do after high school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 292 22% Agree 506 37% Neutral 347 26% Disagree 127 9% Strongly Disagree 80 6% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 10. 1352 7 Teachers encourage me to do my best. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 482 36% Agree 579 43% Neutral 194 14% Disagree 50 4% Strongly Disagree 43 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 11. 1348 11 My teachers treat me fairly. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 349 26% Agree 553 41% Neutral 285 21% Disagree 92 7% Strongly Disagree 73 5% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 12. 1352 7 My school administrators treat me fairly. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 407 30% Agree 531 39% Neutral 263 19% Disagree 60 4% Strongly Disagree 92 7% 42 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Total Respondents (skipped this question) 13. 1353 6 Students at my school like me. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 496 37% Agree 576 43% Neutral 203 15% Disagree 28 2% Strongly Disagree 50 4% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 14. 1353 6 What I learn is school is or will be relevant to real life. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 229 17% Agree 508 38% Neutral 393 29% Disagree 122 9% Strongly Disagree 99 7% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 15. 1351 8 I feel successful at my school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 413 31% Agree 627 46% Neutral 227 17% Disagree 43 3% Strongly Disagree 41 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 16. 1351 8 I like to learn. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 258 19% Agree 464 34% Neutral 393 29% Disagree 121 9% Strongly Disagree 119 9% Total Respondents 1355 43 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life (skipped this question) 17. 4 Extracurricular activities are important to me. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 591 44% Agree 402 30% Neutral 257 19% Disagree 59 4% Strongly Disagree 41 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 18. 1350 9 My teachers are understanding when students have personal problems. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 246 18% Agree 499 37% Neutral 355 26% Disagree 130 10% Strongly Disagree 114 8% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 19. 1344 15 My teachers set high standards for learning in their classes. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 377 28% Agree 646 48% Neutral 239 18% Disagree 49 4% Strongly Disagree 37 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 20. 1348 11 Teachers give me extra help when I do not understand the subject matter. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 362 27% Agree 589 44% Neutral 284 21% Disagree 62 5% Strongly Disagree 50 4% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 1347 12 44 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 21. I am on task and learning during the entire class period. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 229 17% Agree 565 42% Neutral 401 30% Disagree 92 7% Strongly Disagree 65 5% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 22. 1352 7 My teachers give me the opportunity to redo my work to improve my grade. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 326 24% Agree 566 42% Neutral 334 25% Disagree 75 6% Strongly Disagree 52 4% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 23. 1353 6 My teachers believe that I can learn and be successful. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 528 39% Agree 605 45% Neutral 148 11% Disagree 27 2% Strongly Disagree 40 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 24. 1348 11 There is trust and respect between students and faculty. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 276 21% Agree 517 38% Neutral 355 26% Disagree 108 8% Strongly Disagree 90 7% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 25. 1346 13 I know how I am expected to behave in my school. 45 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 611 45% Agree 599 44% Neutral 95 7% Disagree 15 1% Strongly Disagree 32 2% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 26. 1352 7 My teachers use a variety of strategies to keep my classes interesting. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 266 20% Agree 528 39% Neutral 315 23% Disagree 157 12% Strongly Disagree 81 6% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 27. 1347 12 I have effective two-way communication with all of my teachers. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 275 20% Agree 484 36% Neutral 395 29% Disagree 120 9% Strongly Disagree 75 6% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 28. 1349 10 Teachers keep my parents informed about my school work. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 233 17% Agree 446 33% Neutral 401 30% Disagree 179 13% Strongly Disagree 90 7% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 29. 1349 10 My thoughts and opinions are valued at my school. Response Total Response Percent 46 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Strongly Agree 194 14% Agree 456 34% Neutral 403 30% Disagree 168 12% Strongly Disagree 128 9% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 30. 1349 10 My teachers and counselors talk with me about my plans for my life after graduation. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 226 17% Agree 418 31% Neutral 334 25% Disagree 223 17% Strongly Disagree 140 10% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 31. 1341 18 The tests my teachers give effectively measure what I have been taught. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 283 21% Agree 640 48% Neutral 288 22% Disagree 76 6% Strongly Disagree 52 4% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 32. 1339 20 My connections courses are important to me. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 387 29% Agree 446 33% Neutral 278 21% Disagree 113 8% Strongly Disagree 121 9% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 33. 1345 14 Middle school is preparing me to be successful in the ninth grade. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 405 30% Agree 567 42% 47 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Neutral 247 18% Disagree 63 5% Strongly Disagree 64 5% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 34. 1346 13 What could middle schools do to better prepare students for high school? View responses to this question 35. Total Respondents 1104 (skipped this question) 255 Currently, I attend the following middle school: Response Total Response Percent Lakeside 61 5% Liberty 133 10% Little Mill 154 11% North Forsyth 223 17% Otwell 135 10% Piney Grove 119 9% Riverwatch 109 8% South Forsyth 253 19% Vickery Creek 161 12% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 36. 1348 11 How many times have you repeated a grade level? Response Total Response Percent Zero 867 88% One 87 9% Two 11 1% Three 3 0% Four 21 2% 37. Total Respondents 989 (skipped this question) 370 I am: Response Total Response Percent 1025 77% Black 60 4% Hispanic 104 8% Multiracial 51 4% Asian 80 6% White 48 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Native American/Alaskan Native 17 Total Respondents (skipped this question) 38. 1% 1337 22 I am: Response Total Response Percent Male 665 50% Female 666 50% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 1331 28 49 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS' PERCEPTION SURVEY RESULTS Respondents: 650 displayed, 650 total Status: Active Launched Date: 05/13/2010 Closed Date: N/A 1. I know what is expected of me in my classes. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 265 41% Agree 315 49% Neutral 45 7% Disagree 6 1% Strongly Disagree 14 2% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 2. 645 5 Learning is clearly the main focus at our school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 161 25% Agree 306 47% Neutral 122 19% Disagree 35 5% Strongly Disagree 22 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 3. 646 4 I have positive relationships with at least two adults in my school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 277 43% Agree 219 34% Neutral 96 15% Disagree 25 4% Strongly Disagree 24 4% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 4. 641 9 I am happy at my school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 141 22% Agree 255 40% Neutral 161 25% 50 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Disagree 47 7% Strongly Disagree 40 6% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 5. 644 6 Discipline procedures are fair and consistent. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 76 12% Agree 180 28% Neutral 228 36% Disagree 97 15% Strongly Disagree 59 9% 6. Total Respondents 640 (skipped this question) 10 I feel safe at school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 139 22% Agree 283 44% Neutral 138 21% Disagree 48 7% Strongly Disagree 35 5% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 7. 643 7 I feel like I belong at this school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 146 23% Agree 268 42% Neutral 137 21% Disagree 49 8% Strongly Disagree 41 6% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 8. 641 9 The work at my school is challenging. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 126 20% Agree 255 40% Neutral 194 30% Disagree 46 7% Strongly Disagree 23 4% 51 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Total Respondents (skipped this question) 9. 644 6 My school is preparing me well for what I want to do after high school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 95 15% Agree 229 36% Neutral 184 29% Disagree 83 13% Strongly Disagree 50 8% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 10. 641 9 Teachers encourage me to do my best. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 174 27% Agree 277 43% Neutral 132 21% Disagree 32 5% Strongly Disagree 24 4% 11. Total Respondents 639 (skipped this question) 11 My teachers treat me fairly. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 131 20% Agree 285 45% Neutral 136 21% Disagree 55 9% Strongly Disagree 33 5% 12. Total Respondents 640 (skipped this question) 10 My school administrators treat me fairly. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 128 20% Agree 268 42% Neutral 176 27% Disagree 28 4% Strongly Disagree 42 7% Total Respondents 642 52 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life (skipped this question) 13. 8 Students at my school like me. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 185 29% Agree 314 49% Neutral 110 17% Disagree 17 3% Strongly Disagree 18 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 14. 644 6 What I learn is school is or will be relevant to real life. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 65 10% Agree 216 34% Neutral 219 34% Disagree 84 13% Strongly Disagree 57 9% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 15. 641 9 I feel successful at my school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 141 22% Agree 314 49% Neutral 129 20% Disagree 40 6% Strongly Disagree 18 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 16. 642 8 I like to learn. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 129 20% Agree 228 36% Neutral 186 29% Disagree 49 8% Strongly Disagree 50 8% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 642 8 53 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 17. Extracurricular activities are important to me. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 267 41% Agree 205 32% Neutral 116 18% Disagree 36 6% Strongly Disagree 21 3% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 18. 645 5 My teachers are understanding when students have personal problems. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 96 15% Agree 186 29% Neutral 213 33% Disagree 83 13% Strongly Disagree 59 9% 19. Total Respondents 637 (skipped this question) 13 My teachers set high standards for learning in their classes. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 123 19% Agree 327 51% Neutral 151 24% Disagree 23 4% Strongly Disagree 16 2% 20. Total Respondents 640 (skipped this question) 10 Teachers give me extra help when I do not understand the subject matter. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 131 20% Agree 297 46% Neutral 143 22% Disagree 43 7% Strongly Disagree 29 5% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 21. 643 7 I am on task and learning during the entire class period. 54 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 72 11% Agree 245 38% Neutral 219 34% Disagree 75 12% Strongly Disagree 32 5% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 22. 643 7 My teachers give me the opportunity to redo my work to improve my grade. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 99 15% Agree 229 36% Neutral 179 28% Disagree 88 14% Strongly Disagree 49 8% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 23. 644 6 My teachers believe that I can learn and be successful. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 189 30% Agree 331 52% Neutral 81 13% Disagree 16 3% Strongly Disagree 21 3% 24. Total Respondents 638 (skipped this question) 12 There is trust and respect between students and faculty. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 84 13% Agree 243 38% Neutral 189 29% Disagree 75 12% Strongly Disagree 52 8% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 25. 643 7 I know how I am expected to behave in my school. Response Total Response Percent 55 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Strongly Agree 237 37% Agree 342 53% Neutral 45 7% Disagree 3 0% Strongly Disagree 14 2% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 26. 641 9 My teachers use a variety of strategies to keep my classes interesting. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 79 12% Agree 229 36% Neutral 187 29% Disagree 99 15% Strongly Disagree 48 7% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 27. 642 8 I have effective two-way communication with all of my teachers. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 86 13% Agree 243 38% Neutral 185 29% Disagree 91 14% Strongly Disagree 36 6% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 28. 641 9 Teachers keep my parents informed about my school work. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 102 16% Agree 237 37% Neutral 185 29% Disagree 68 11% Strongly Disagree 47 7% 29. Total Respondents 639 (skipped this question) 11 My thoughts and opinions are valued at my school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 68 11% Agree 201 32% 56 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Neutral 200 31% Disagree 96 15% Strongly Disagree 72 11% 30. Total Respondents 637 (skipped this question) 13 My teachers and counselors talk with me about my plans for my life after graduation. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 58 9% Agree 149 23% Neutral 190 30% Disagree 131 20% Strongly Disagree 112 18% 31. Total Respondents 640 (skipped this question) 10 The tests my teachers give effectively measure what I have been taught. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 86 13% Agree 305 47% Neutral 160 25% Disagree 51 8% Strongly Disagree 42 7% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 32. 644 6 My elective courses are important to me. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 255 40% Agree 247 38% Neutral 94 15% Disagree 22 3% Strongly Disagree 27 4% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 33. 645 5 Middle school prepared me to be successful in the ninth grade. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 76 12% Agree 191 30% Neutral 201 31% Disagree 88 14% 57 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 89 Strongly Disagree 14% Total Respondents 645 (skipped this question) 34. 5 What could middle schools do to better prepare students for high school? View responses to this question 35. Total Respondents 488 (skipped this question) 162 Currently, I attend the following high school: Response Total Response Percent Academies of Creative Education 2 0% Forsyth Central High School 22 3% Lambert High School 53 8% North Forsyth High School 282 44% South Forsyth High School 223 35% West Forsyth High School 56 9% 36. Total Respondents 638 (skipped this question) 12 Currently, I am in the following grade: Response Total Response Percent Ninth 529 83% Tenth 65 10% Eleventh 31 5% Twelfth 15 2% 37. Total Respondents 640 (skipped this question) 10 How many times have you repeated a grade level? Response Total Response Percent Zero 465 91% One 32 6% Two 5 1% Three 3 1% Four 6 1% 38. Total Respondents 511 (skipped this question) 139 I am: Response Response 58 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Total Percent White 478 75% Black 29 5% Hispanic 49 8% Multiracial 25 4% Asian 47 7% Native American/Alaskan Native 7 1% 39. Total Respondents 635 (skipped this question) 15 I am: Response Total Response Percent Male 309 49% Female 328 51% Total Respondents 637 (skipped this question) 13 59 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life PERCENT OF CERTIFIED STAFF, 15 PERCENT OF GREATER, WHO RESPONDED DISAGREE OR STRONGLY DISAGREE ON THE CERTIFIED STAFF SURVEY Item 64. Professional learning in our school provides opportunities for teachers and administrators to learn how to involve families in their children’s education. Certified Staff Percent Disagree or Strongly Disagree 21 60 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life CERTIFIED STAFF SURVEY RESULTS Respondents: 796 displayed, 796 total Status: Active Launched Date: 05/13/2010 Closed Date: N/A Display: 1. Display all pages and questions 1. What is your school name? Response Total Response Percent 7 1% Big Creek ES 9 1% Brookwood ES 15 2% Chattahoochee ES 16 2% Chestatee ES 21 3% Coal Mountain ES 18 2% Cumming ES 28 4% Daves Creek ES 17 2% Forsyth Central HS 29 4% Haw Creek ES 17 2% Johns Creek ES 14 2% Lakeside MS 15 2% Lambert HS 19 2% Liberty MS 21 3% Little Mill MS 14 2% Mashburn ES 9 1% Matt ES 23 3% Midway ES 18 2% North Forsyth HS 52 7% North Forsyth MS 23 3% Otwell MS 14 2% Piney Grove MS 34 4% Riverwatch MS 17 2% Sawnee ES 24 3% Settles Bridge ES 14 2% Sharon ES 15 2% Shiloh Point ES 9 1% Academies of Creative Education (Gateway, Forsyth Academy & Academy@Night) Silver City ES 12 2% South Forsyth HS 108 14% South Forsyth MS 39 5% Vickery Creek ES 24 3% Vickery Creek MS 33 4% West Forsyth HS 42 5% Whitlow ES 26 3% Total Respondents 796 61 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 2. What subject(s) do you teach? View responses to this question 3. Total Respondents 761 (skipped this question) 35 What grade level(s) do you teach? View responses to this question 4. Total Respondents 755 (skipped this question) 41 Our written curriculum documents (e.g., maps and units) are aligned to GPS/QCC and are used to guide instruction. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 452 57% Agree 289 36% Neutral 40 5% Disagree 11 1% Strongly Disagree 1 0% Total Respondents 793 (skipped this question) 5. 3 Our curriculum has been aligned horizontally and vertically in order to support students’ mastery of the GPS/QCC standards. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 294 37% Agree 384 49% Neutral 75 9% Disagree 34 4% Strongly Disagree 4 1% Total Respondents 791 (skipped this question) 6. 5 Our curriculum maps and units are designed to ensure all students participate in a curriculum that requires depth of understanding and rigor. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 305 38% Agree 372 47% Neutral 75 9% Disagree 36 5% Strongly Disagree 5 1% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 793 3 62 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 7. We meet to collaborate on the design and implementation of the curriculum. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 347 44% Agree 321 41% Neutral 79 10% Disagree 39 5% Strongly Disagree 6 1% Total Respondents 792 (skipped this question) 8. 4 Our teachers have a shared understanding of what students are expected to know, do and understand at all grade levels and in all subject areas. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 276 35% Agree 365 46% Neutral 89 11% Disagree 53 7% Strongly Disagree 8 1% Total Respondents 791 (skipped this question) 9. 5 Our teachers analyze student work collaboratively to build consensus for a common understanding of proficiency and rigor. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 222 28% Agree 352 45% Neutral 117 15% Disagree 91 12% Strongly Disagree 8 1% Total Respondents 790 (skipped this question) 10. 6 Administrators and teacher leaders monitor and evaluate implementation of the curriculum through a consistent and systematic school-wide process. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 236 30% Agree 354 45% Neutral 130 16% Disagree 61 8% Strongly Disagree 9 1% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 11. 790 6 Performance data and the review of student work are used to revise curriculum implementation and to align resources. 63 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 292 37% Agree 363 46% Neutral 90 11% Disagree 43 5% Strongly Disagree 4 1% Total Respondents 792 (skipped this question) 12. 4 Comments: View responses to this question 13. Total Respondents 145 (skipped this question) 651 An organizing framework (e.g., Opening/Activating Strategy, Teaching/Student Work time, Summarizing/Sharing Work) that aligns curriculum, assessment, and instruction is utilized to plan quality teaching and learning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 258 33% Agree 416 53% Neutral 89 11% Disagree 25 3% Strongly Disagree 1 0% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 14. 789 7 Teachers plan together to design, monitor, and revise instruction. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 289 37% Agree 373 47% Neutral 80 10% Disagree 47 6% Strongly Disagree 1 0% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 15. 790 6 Learning goals are aligned with GPS/QCC. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 454 58% Agree 306 39% Neutral 20 3% Disagree 6 1% Strongly Disagree 1 0% 64 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Total Respondents 787 (skipped this question) 16. 9 Learning goals are explicitly communicated to our students. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 319 41% Agree 404 51% Neutral 47 6% Disagree 14 2% Strongly Disagree 1 0% 17. Total Respondents 785 (skipped this question) 11 Teachers use a variety of research-based instructional strategies. (e.g., compare/contrast, summarizing, higher-order questioning, advanced organizers) Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 399 51% Agree 338 43% Neutral 32 4% Disagree 12 2% Strongly Disagree 1 0% 18. Total Respondents 782 (skipped this question) 14 Teachers emphasize and encourage learners to use higher-order thinking skills (e.g., compare/contrast, classify), processes (e.g., problem-solving, decision-making) and mental habits of the mind (e.g., critical thinking, creative thinking). Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 361 46% Agree 359 46% Neutral 50 6% Disagree 11 1% Strongly Disagree 5 1% 19. Total Respondents 786 (skipped this question) 10 Differentiated instruction, adjustment of content, product, process and/or learning environment, is provided to support students according to their instructional needs. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 339 43% Agree 364 46% Neutral 56 7% Disagree 25 3% Strongly Disagree 2 0% Total Respondents 786 65 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life (skipped this question) 20. 10 We utilize flexible grouping based on ongoing diagnosis and formative assessment to enhance student learning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 280 36% Agree 351 45% Neutral 104 13% Disagree 49 6% Strongly Disagree 3 0% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 21. 787 9 Systematic and data-driven interventions are required for our students who need additional assistance to master standards. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 323 41% Agree 370 47% Neutral 70 9% Disagree 20 3% Strongly Disagree 2 0% 22. Total Respondents 785 (skipped this question) 11 Technology is effectively used to maximize student learning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 318 40% Agree 349 44% Neutral 80 10% Disagree 36 5% Strongly Disagree 4 1% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 23. 787 9 Our students are engaged in work that is authentic, standards-driven and requires higher order reasoning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 310 40% Agree 396 51% Neutral 51 7% Disagree 16 2% Strongly Disagree 6 1% Total Respondents 779 (skipped this question) 17 66 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 24. Teachers and students work collaboratively to establish high expectations and challenging learning goals. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 250 32% Agree 374 48% Neutral 108 14% Disagree 46 6% Strongly Disagree 7 1% 25. Total Respondents 785 (skipped this question) 11 Students identify and apply evaluation criteria and monitor achievement of those criteria utilizing such tools as benchmark work, rubrics, anchor papers, scoring guides, and evaluation checklists. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 222 29% Agree 373 48% Neutral 125 16% Disagree 50 6% Strongly Disagree 6 1% 26. Total Respondents 776 (skipped this question) 20 Comments: View responses to this question 27. Total Respondents 110 (skipped this question) 686 We use a comprehensive system for assessing student progress toward meeting the GPS/QCC. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 284 36% Agree 404 52% Neutral 68 9% Disagree 24 3% Strongly Disagree 2 0% 28. Total Respondents 782 (skipped this question) 14 Based on learning gaps and problems identified through assessment data, instruction is adjusted to improve overall and individual student achievement. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 307 39% Agree 403 51% Neutral 49 6% 67 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Disagree 24 3% Strongly Disagree 1 0% 29. Total Respondents 784 (skipped this question) 12 Teachers collaborate to design assessments aligned to the GPS/QCC. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 325 41% Agree 366 47% Neutral 65 8% Disagree 25 3% Strongly Disagree 4 1% 30. Total Respondents 785 (skipped this question) 11 We utilize flexible grouping based on ongoing diagnosis and formative assessment to enhance student learning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 250 32% Agree 388 49% Neutral 104 13% Disagree 40 5% Strongly Disagree 2 0% 31. Total Respondents 784 (skipped this question) 12 Teachers use a variety of formative assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instruction. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 345 44% Agree 385 49% Neutral 40 5% Disagree 8 1% Strongly Disagree 1 0% 32. Total Respondents 779 (skipped this question) 17 Teachers use a variety of summative assessment tasks to evaluate student achievement of GPS/QCC. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 318 40% Agree 378 48% Neutral 66 8% Disagree 22 3% Strongly Disagree 3 0% 68 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Total Respondents 787 (skipped this question) 33. 9 Collaboration on data analysis guides and informs grade-level and school-wide decisionmaking. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 249 32% Agree 378 49% Neutral 106 14% Disagree 39 5% Strongly Disagree 5 1% 34. Total Respondents 777 (skipped this question) 19 Our student’s ability to self-monitor and self-evaluate is enhanced through the use a variety of assessments (e.g., constructed-response test items, reflective assessments, academic prompts, performance tasks and projects) Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 150 19% Agree 386 49% Neutral 168 22% Disagree 70 9% Strongly Disagree 7 1% 35. Total Respondents 781 (skipped this question) 15 Assessment data is used to plan and adjust for instruction for each student, subgroup of students and the school as a whole. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 259 33% Agree 419 53% Neutral 64 8% Disagree 39 5% Strongly Disagree 3 0% 36. Total Respondents 784 (skipped this question) 12 Comments: View responses to this question 37. Total Respondents 90 (skipped this question) 706 Our school’s vision and mission guides and informs our continuous school improvement process. Response Total Response Percent 69 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Strongly Agree 319 40% Agree 369 47% Neutral 83 10% Disagree 15 2% Strongly Disagree 5 1% Total Respondents 791 (skipped this question) 38. 5 Our school improvement plan was created with staff input. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 283 36% Agree 312 39% Neutral 143 18% Disagree 39 5% Strongly Disagree 13 2% Total Respondents 790 (skipped this question) 39. 6 Our administrators and the school leadership team monitor the implementation of the school improvement plan and its impact upon student achievement. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 305 39% Agree 337 43% Neutral 112 14% Disagree 30 4% Strongly Disagree 5 1% Total Respondents 789 (skipped this question) 40. 7 Our school and our district work together to ensure resources are allocated to support the achievement of our school improvement goals. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 248 32% Agree 360 46% Neutral 131 17% Disagree 38 5% Strongly Disagree 9 1% 41. Total Respondents 786 (skipped this question) 10 Human, technological, and material resources are effectively selected and used to ensure the academic success of all learners. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 233 30% Agree 399 51% 70 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Neutral 100 13% Disagree 43 5% Strongly Disagree 11 1% 42. Total Respondents 786 (skipped this question) 10 A safe learning environment is planned, implemented, and maintained by our school staff and administrators. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 454 58% Agree 291 37% Neutral 29 4% Disagree 6 1% Strongly Disagree 3 0% 43. Total Respondents 783 (skipped this question) 13 Instructional time is maximized, and no interruptions occur to detract from time on learning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 227 29% Agree 337 43% Neutral 103 13% Disagree 89 11% Strongly Disagree 24 3% 44. Total Respondents 780 (skipped this question) 16 Our school facility is adequately maintained, clean, and conducive for teaching and learning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 382 49% Agree 313 40% Neutral 53 7% Disagree 31 4% Strongly Disagree 7 1% 45. Total Respondents 786 (skipped this question) 10 Comments: View responses to this question 46. Total Respondents 110 (skipped this question) 686 Opportunities for communication exist in both directions between the home and school. 71 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 418 53% Agree 347 44% Neutral 16 2% Disagree 5 1% Strongly Disagree 0 0% 47. Total Respondents 786 (skipped this question) 10 Opportunities exist for parents to participate in training and informational sessions to enhance student performance. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 236 30% Agree 330 42% Neutral 157 20% Disagree 61 8% Strongly Disagree 4 1% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 48. 788 8 Parents feel welcome in our school. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 397 51% Agree 324 41% Neutral 52 7% Disagree 10 1% Strongly Disagree 2 0% 49. Total Respondents 785 (skipped this question) 11 Opportunities exist for parents and community members to participate in school governance, decision-making and problem-solving. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 245 31% Agree 372 48% Neutral 132 17% Disagree 28 4% Strongly Disagree 6 1% 50. Total Respondents 783 (skipped this question) 13 School and community partnerships exist to provide a network of support for our students. Response Total Response Percent 72 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Strongly Agree 292 37% Agree 381 49% Neutral 93 12% Disagree 15 2% Strongly Disagree 4 1% 51. Total Respondents 785 (skipped this question) 11 Comments: View responses to this question 52. Total Respondents 69 (skipped this question) 727 Teachers and administrators participate in job-embedded professional learning and collaboration addressing curriculum, assessment, instruction, and technology (e.g. developing lesson plans, examining student work, monitoring student progress) Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 348 45% Agree 354 45% Neutral 59 8% Disagree 16 2% Strongly Disagree 4 1% 53. Total Respondents 781 (skipped this question) 15 The principal and other school leaders set clear expectations and monitor the effectiveness of professional learning on teacher practices and student learning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 321 41% Agree 335 42% Neutral 97 12% Disagree 27 3% Strongly Disagree 9 1% Total Respondents (skipped this question) 54. 789 7 Opportunities exist for teachers in our school to participate in instructional leadership development. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 295 38% Agree 365 47% Neutral 80 10% Disagree 34 4% Strongly Disagree 9 1% Total Respondents 783 (skipped this question) 13 73 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 55. The principal and other leaders plan professional learning by utilizing data (student learning, demographic, perception, and process) to determine adult learning priorities. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 311 40% Agree 319 41% Neutral 120 15% Disagree 24 3% Strongly Disagree 8 1% 56. Total Respondents 782 (skipped this question) 14 Resources are allocated to support job-embedded professional learning that is aligned with high priority school improvement goals. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 245 31% Agree 381 49% Neutral 121 15% Disagree 28 4% Strongly Disagree 6 1% 57. Total Respondents 781 (skipped this question) 15 Teams meet to review and study current research to make informed instructional decisions. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 212 27% Agree 334 43% Neutral 159 20% Disagree 64 8% Strongly Disagree 14 2% 58. Total Respondents 783 (skipped this question) 13 The staff participates in long-term (two- to three-year period) in-depth professional learning which is aligned with our school improvement goals. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 191 25% Agree 308 40% Neutral 204 26% Disagree 63 8% Strongly Disagree 12 2% 59. Total Respondents 778 (skipped this question) 18 Teachers and administrators have the knowledge and skills (e.g., group decision-making strategies, stages of group development, setting norms, 74 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life using protocols, etc.) necessary to collaborate. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 303 39% Agree 368 47% Neutral 77 10% Disagree 27 3% Strongly Disagree 4 1% 60. Total Respondents 779 (skipped this question) 17 Our professional learning prepares us in practices that convey respect for diverse cultural backgrounds and high expectations for all students. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 237 31% Agree 379 49% Neutral 107 14% Disagree 44 6% Strongly Disagree 10 1% 61. Total Respondents 777 (skipped this question) 19 Our professional learning prepares teachers to adjust instruction and assessment to meet the needs of diverse learners. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 236 30% Agree 406 52% Neutral 105 13% Disagree 31 4% Strongly Disagree 6 1% 62. Total Respondents 784 (skipped this question) 12 Our teachers participate in professional learning to deepen their content knowledge. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 230 30% Agree 344 44% Neutral 110 14% Disagree 76 10% Strongly Disagree 18 2% 63. Total Respondents 778 (skipped this question) 18 Our professional learning designs are purposeful, and are aligned with specific individual and group needs. 75 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 225 29% Agree 359 46% Neutral 137 18% Disagree 46 6% Strongly Disagree 11 1% 64. Total Respondents 778 (skipped this question) 18 Professional learning in our school provides opportunities for teachers and administrators to learn how to involve families in their children’s education. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 136 17% Agree 276 35% Neutral 203 26% Disagree 141 18% Strongly Disagree 24 3% 65. Total Respondents 780 (skipped this question) 16 Comments: View responses to this question 66. Total Respondents 88 (skipped this question) 708 Our principal and school administrators exhibit a deep understanding of curriculum, assessment and instruction. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 371 47% Agree 308 39% Neutral 66 8% Disagree 27 3% Strongly Disagree 10 1% 67. Total Respondents 782 (skipped this question) 14 Our principal and school administrators are actively involved in the learning community, including serving as active members on study teams and promoting meaningful professional learning. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 322 41% Agree 297 38% Neutral 101 13% Disagree 49 6% Strongly Disagree 12 2% 76 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 68. Total Respondents 781 (skipped this question) 15 Our principal and school administrators keep the school focused on student learning and promote sustained and continuous improvement. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 392 50% Agree 318 41% Neutral 47 6% Disagree 19 2% Strongly Disagree 7 1% 69. Total Respondents 783 (skipped this question) 13 Our principal and school administrators utilize multiple types of data to drive and monitor school-wide instructional decisions. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 359 46% Agree 311 40% Neutral 86 11% Disagree 19 2% Strongly Disagree 5 1% 70. Total Respondents 780 (skipped this question) 16 Our principal and school administrators implement policies, practices, and procedures that ensure a safe and orderly learning environment. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 414 53% Agree 284 36% Neutral 56 7% Disagree 20 3% Strongly Disagree 5 1% 71. Total Respondents 779 (skipped this question) 17 Our principal and school administrators maximize the availability and distribution of instructional resources (human, material and technology) focused on school learning goals. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 335 43% Agree 334 43% Neutral 74 10% Disagree 22 3% Strongly Disagree 10 1% Total Respondents 775 77 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life (skipped this question) 72. 21 Our principal and school administrators are visible to staff, students and parents, and participate in subject and/or grade level meetings. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 333 43% Agree 287 37% Neutral 78 10% Disagree 55 7% Strongly Disagree 25 3% 73. Total Respondents 778 (skipped this question) 18 Our principal and administrators collaborate with staff members and other stake holders to elicit input and provide opportunities for shared decisionmaking and problem solving. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 287 37% Agree 323 42% Neutral 87 11% Disagree 56 7% Strongly Disagree 25 3% 74. Total Respondents 778 (skipped this question) 18 Staff members have opportunities to serve in a variety of leadership roles. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 303 39% Agree 346 44% Neutral 84 11% Disagree 39 5% Strongly Disagree 8 1% 75. Total Respondents 780 (skipped this question) 16 Our school uses external resources (e.g., Central Office, RESA, GLRS, Universities, ETTC, GaDOE) to support school improvement initiatives. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 210 27% Agree 354 46% Neutral 175 23% Disagree 27 3% Strongly Disagree 9 1% Total Respondents 775 (skipped this question) 21 78 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 76. Our school has a fully operational leadership team (school improvement team, design team, etc.) that is representative of our entire staff. The team conducts regular, results-driven meetings and exists to address student achievement and overall academic success. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 346 45% Agree 276 36% Neutral 99 13% Disagree 40 5% Strongly Disagree 15 2% 77. Total Respondents 776 (skipped this question) 20 Our leadership team has developed and uses a protocol for handling business, making decisions, and solving problems. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 284 36% Agree 277 36% Neutral 165 21% Disagree 42 5% Strongly Disagree 11 1% 78. Total Respondents 779 (skipped this question) 17 Our leadership team uses an ongoing, data-driven decision-making process to identify student achievement and organizational productivity needs. Response Total Response Percent Strongly Agree 293 37% Agree 338 43% Neutral 119 15% Disagree 28 4% Strongly Disagree 7 1% 79. Total Respondents 785 (skipped this question) 11 Comments: View responses to this question Total Respondents 98 (skipped this question) 698 79 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 2009 ENROLLMENT AND DEMOGRAPHIC DATA BY PERCENT ENROLLMENT IN FORSYTH COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS School Name Enrollment Asian Black Hispanic White Multi- Students with Racial Disabilities Limited Students English Eligible for Proficient Free/ Reduced Students Lunch Central Forsyth 1,522 1 2 15 81 1 12 2 21 North Forsyth 2,026 1 1 7 89 1 11 2 19 South Forsyth 2,669 7 4 8 79 2 7 3 8 West Forsyth 1,719 2 3 6 87 2 7 2 11 Lambert 1413 8 2 5 82 2 6 1 4.9 Forsyth Academy 74 1 3 7 89 0 19 0 0 State of Georgia 1,615,066 3 38 10 46 2 11 6 53 RANGE OF 2009 DEMOGRAPHIC PERCENTAGES OF FORSYTH COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS Student Demographics Asian Black Hispanic White Multiracial Range of Percentages for Forsyth County High Schools 1–8 1–4 5 – 15 79 – 89 0–2 Students with Disabilities 6 – 19 Limited English Proficient Eligible for Free/Reduced Meals 0–3 0 - 21 80 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life GRADUATION RATES OF FORSYTH COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS, 2004 – 2009, AND STATE PERCENTAGES Graduation Rate 2005 Central Forsyth 69.4 77.2 78.0 77.8 81.4 81.6 12.2 North Forsyth 74.6 78.7 79.5 80.5 84.0 83.6 9.0 South Forsyth 88.2 84.6 84.9 89.9 90.4 92.4 4.2 West Forsyth N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 95.0 N/A Lambert N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Forsyth Academy4 N/A N/A 85.0 900 93.0 92.0 N/A State of Georgia 65.4 67.8 70.8 73.2 75.4 78.9 13.5 School Name 4 Amount of Graduation Graduation Graduation Graduation Change Rate Rate Rate Rate 20042006 2007 2008 2009 2009 Graduation Rate 2004 These percentages include 5th year seniors. Percentages for other schools do not.. 81 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Percentage of Students by Range of Days Absent For All Students and All Subgroups 82 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 End-of-Course Tests All Students 83 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life End-of-Course Tests Students by Race/Ethnicity 84 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 85 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 GHSGT Math AMO = 74.90% GHSGT ELA AMO = 87.7% Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT) Percentage of 11th-Grade 1st-Time Test Takers at Each Performance Level: Comparison For All Students 86 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT) Percentage of 11th-Grade 1st-Time Test Takers at Each Performance Level: Comparison By Race/Ethnicity 87 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT) Percentage of 11th-Grade 1st-Time Test Takers at Each Performance Level: Comparison By Other Subgroups 88 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Advanced Placement Exams Number of Students Taking Tests Number of Tests Taken 2,008 3,219 Number of Test Scores 3 or Higher 1,971 Percentage of Test Scores 3 or Higher 61.2% Note: The State totals posted here may not agree with those published by the College Board because private schools and duplications have been removed. Source of Data: The College Board. Copyright© 2006 The College Board. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved. Advanced Placement(AP) Course Participation by Race\Ethnicity - Number of Participants and Percentage of Enrollment Course Description All Exams Art History Biology Calculus AB Calculus BC Chemistry Computer Sci A Computer Sci AB Economics: Macro Economics: Micro English Lang/Comp English Lit/Comp Environmental Sci All Students Asian Male Female 1971 152 23 10 10 1638 940 1031 (61%) (65%) (55%) (27%) (48%) (62%) (67%) (57%) 5 0 0 0 0 5 3 2 (31%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (31%) (50%) (20%) 57 9 2 0 0 43 28 29 (0%) (0%) (57%) (68%) (52%) (59%) Black Hispanic Native Amer / Alaskan Native White (69%) (100%) 43 2 0 1 0 40 24 19 (55%) (100%) (0%) (50%) (0%) (57%) (55%) (56%) 6 1 44 (94%) (100%) (100%) 0 0 36 26 18 (0%) (0%) (92%) (93%) (95%) 28 3 0 0 0 24 10 18 (40%) (50%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (41%) (37%) (42%) 5 0 0 0 0 4 4 1 (71%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) 77 3 0 0 0 70 46 31 (82%) (100%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (84%) (82%) (82%) 36 0 0 0 0 35 21 15 (59%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (65%) (70%) (48%) (100%) (80%) (50%) 311 16 4 1 3 266 106 205 (72%) (84%) (80%) (50%) (100%) (70%) (79%) (69%) 162 7 2 1 0 145 51 111 (72%) (88%) (40%) (33%) (0%) (75%) (77%) (70%) 49 2 0 0 0 44 28 21 (43%) (33%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (47%) (61%) (31%) 89 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life French Lang Govt & Pol: U.S. History: European History: U.S. History: World Human Geography Latin: Vergil Music Theory Physics B Physics C: E&M Physics C: Mech Psychology Spanish Lang Spanish Lit Statistics Studio Art: 2-D Design Studio Art: 3-D Design Studio Art: Drawing 9 0 1 0 0 3 2 7 (35%) (0%) (100%) (0%) (0%) (20%) (25%) (39%) 50 2 0 0 0 47 31 19 (83%) (67%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (85%) (91%) (73%) 5 6 11 0 0 0 0 11 (85%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (85%) (71%) (100%) 189 14 2 0 2 157 103 86 (48%) (54%) (50%) (0%) (40%) (48%) (58%) (40%) 254 29 3 0 0 204 139 115 (65%) (58%) (43%) (0%) (0%) (68%) (73%) (57%) 194 23 4 3 0 149 106 88 (64%) (60%) (0%) (62%) (71%) (57%) 1 (74%) (100%) 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 (33%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (50%) (50%) (0%) 3 0 0 0 0 3 2 1 (100%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (100%) (100%) (100%) 6 0 0 0 0 5 6 0 (38%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (36%) (40%) (0%) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (0%) 255 20 2 0 4 206 110 145 (71%) (77%) (40%) (0%) (100%) (71%) (70%) (72%) 30 2 1 2 0 16 9 21 (38%) (25%) (50%) (50%) (0%) (30%) (36%) (39%) 5 0 0 2 0 1 0 5 (16%) (0%) (0%) (25%) (0%) (8%) (0%) (21%) 127 12 1 0 0 107 76 51 (0%) (0%) (48%) (55%) (42%) (49%) (57%) (100%) 8 1 0 0 0 7 0 8 (62%) (50%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (64%) (0%) (73%) 2 1 2 3 1 0 0 0 (75%) (100%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (67%) (100%) (67%) 9 0 0 0 1 7 2 7 (60%) (0%) (0%) (0%) (100%) (58%) (50%) (64%) 90 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life More Information Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Average Total SAT Score for High School Seniors (Reflects Highest Scores for Verbal, Math and Writing) at the System, State, and National Levels *GOSA does not report on fewer than 10 students. ** Only the average of the Most Recent SAT score is available at the National level. Average SubTotal SAT Score for High School Seniors (Reflects Highest Scores for Verbal and Math) at the System, State, and National Levels *GOSA does not report on fewer than 10 students. ** Only the average of the Most Recent SAT score is available at the National level. Average Verbal SAT Score for High School Seniors (Reflects Highest Scores) at the System, State, and National Levels *GOSA does not report on fewer than 10 students. ** Only the average of the Most Recent SAT score is available at the National level. 91 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Average Math SAT Score for High School Seniors (Reflects Highest Scores) at the System, State, and National Levels *GOSA does not report on fewer than 10 students. ** Only the average of the Most Recent SAT score is available at the National level. Average Writing SAT Score for High School Seniors (Reflects Highest Scores) at the System, State, and National Levels *GOSA does not report n fewer than 10 students. ** Only the average of the Most Recent SAT score is available at the National level. 92 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Average ACT Scores (Composite & Subtest) for All Students at the System, State, and National Levels 93 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County More Information Enrollment: 32,070 Exiting Credentials for 2009 High School Completers Native Amer/ MultiTotal Black White Hispanic Asian Alaskan Racial Native Male Female Graduates Diplomas with Both College Prep. & Voc. 428 4 0.9% 385 90.0% 33 7.7% 4 0.9% 0 0.0% 2 0.5% 185 43.2% 243 56.8% Diplomas with College Prep Endorsements 943 25 2.7% 809 85.8% 58 6.2% 35 3.7% 5 0.5% 11 1.2% 453 48.0% 490 52.0% Diplomas with Vocational Endorsements 184 6 3.3% 143 77.7% 29 15.8% 2 1.1% 0 0.0% 4 2.2% 123 66.8% 61 33.2% 1,555 35 2.3% 1,337 86.0% 120 7.7% 41 2.6% 5 0.3% 761 17 1.1% 48.9% Special Education Diplomas 23 0 0.0% 18 78.3% 4 17.4% 1 4.3% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% Certificates of Attendance 29 0 0.0% 14 48.3% 13 44.8% 2 6.9% 0 0.0% 14 0 0.0% 48.3% 15 51.7% Total Other Completers 52 0 0.0% 32 61.5% 17 32.7% 3 5.8% 0 0.0% 28 0 0.0% 53.8% 24 46.2% Total Graduates 794 51.1% Other Completers Total High School Completers 1,607 35 1,369 2.2% 85.2% 137 8.5% 44 2.7% 5 0.3% 17 1.1% 14 60.9% 789 49.1% 9 39.1% 818 50.9% 94 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Post-Secondary Data Graduates Entering Georgia Public Colleges Number 2008 Graduates Entering System 885 in 2008-2009 State 39,190 System 779 2007 Graduates Entering in 2007-2008 State 34,833 Graduates Entering Georgia Public Colleges and Requiring Learning Support (LS) Percent Of Graduating Class Number Requiring LS Percent of Those Attending Georgia Public Colleges 56.7% 43.2% 58.6% 40.8% 158 9,115 128 7,605 17.9% 23.3% 16.4% 21.8% Graduates Entering Georgia Technical Colleges Entering College FY 2008 Entering College FY 2007 Number Percent Number Percent System 57 3.8% --2008 Graduates State 8,745 10.5% --System --50 3.9% 2007 Graduates State --7,889 10.5% 95 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life More Information Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Three-Year Comparison of Graduation Rates 96 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Three-Year Comparison of Dropout Rates for Grades 7-12 97 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Three-Year Comparison of Dropout Rates for Grades 9-12 98 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Enrollment: 32,070 Community Data Number of Students Eligible to Receive Services through the Migrant Education Program 8 FY 2009 Average Monthly Number of Food Stamp Households FY 2009 Average Monthly Number of TANF Families 4,307 64 2007 Per Capita Income $38,813 2009 Unemployment Rate 8.7% 2000 Census Population 98,407 2008 Census Bureau Population Estimate 168,060 99 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life KIDS COUNT COMMUNITY DATA Indicator Substantiated Incidents of Child Abuse and Neglect Teen Pregnancies Ages 15 - 17 Teen Births Ages 15 - 19 Teen Mothers Giving Birth to Another Child Before Age 20 , Ages 15 19 Babies Born to Mothers with Less Than 12 Years of Education First Births to Mothers Age 20 or Older with 12 Years of Education Child Deaths Ages 1 – 14 Teen Deaths Ages 15 - 19 Teen Deaths by Homicide, Suicide, and Accident Ages 15 – 19 Incidence of STD for Youth Ages 15 – 19 Unemployment Eligible Households with Children Receiving Food Stamps Children Living in Poverty Students Eligible to Receive Free or Reduced Price Meals 2005 (Number and %) 2006 (Number and %) 2007 (Number and %) 2008 (Number and %) 352 9.2/1,000 54 20.9/1,000 129 33.1/1,000 246 6.0/1,000 53 19.4/1,000 139 33.5/1,000 371 18.0/1,000 53 18.3/1,000 98 22.3/1,000 184 3.8/1,000 31 24.2% 25 18.0% 15 15.5% N/A 312 13.5% 319 12.8% 286 11.4% N/A 692 82.0% 5 16.4/100,000 7 85.8/100,000 701 80.8% 7 21.4/100,000 7 80.1/100,000 716 84.8% 4 LNE 6 65.0/100,000 6 73.6/100,000 35 429.1/100,000 2,148 2.9% 6 68.7/100,000 35 400.5/100,000 2,471 3.1 % 5 54.2/100,000 24 260.0/100,000 2,857 3.5% N/A 4,513 5.4% 450 N/A 2,321 6.1% 475 N/A 2,583 6.3% 480 N/A 2,823 6.1% N/A 3,149 6.0% N/A 3,633 14.2% 4,047 14.4% 4,333 14.1% N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 100 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life APPENDIX D PROPEL ECONOMICS OF EDUCATION SUMMIT AGENDA, RELEVANT QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, AND PARTICIPANTS Economics of Education Summit Agenda September 10, 2010 8:30 a.m. Welcome and Opening Remarks Tracy Moon Chair Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce 8:45 a.m. The Economics of Education Dr. Steve Dolinger President Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education 9:15 a.m. PROPEL: From Engage Me to Challenge Me Dr. Buster Evans Superintendent Forsyth County Schools 9:30 a.m. Calculating the Graduation Rate Sue Derison Director of Information Systems and Support Forsyth County Schools 9:45 a.m. Dr. Donna O’Neal Director Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education Directions for Break-Out Sessions 10:00 a.m. Break 10:15 a.m. Break-Out Sessions * Community and Family Communication and Involvement - Room 380 * Relevance to Life After High School – Room 350 * Transitions from Elementary to Middle to High School – Drive Lab 2 * Identification of At-risk Learners and Action Steps – Drive Lab 1 * Student-Educator Relationships – Room 200 11:30 a.m. Reports from Break-Out Sessions 11:55 a.m. Closing Remarks 12:00 noon Adjourn 101 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Economics of Education Summit Relevant Questions Community and Family Communication and Involvement What are the communication challenges? What are the best forms of communication to reach constituents? What do teachers think parents need to know? How can parents communicate with the schools? How much two-way communication is needed? Relevance to Life After High School How does the curriculum relate to outside paths? jobs? How do strong CTAE programs assist in establishing relevancy? Is the curriculum students learn relevant to real world experiences? What successful models are available? What do paths to technical schools and colleges look like? How can we communicate to students, particularly at-risk students, the opportunities that are open to them? How can we use study abroad, internships, shadowing, work-study, and Kick-It-Up Clubs to establish relevancy? How do we connect the curriculum and learning to assist students in understanding that knowledge and education are pathways to a quality life and self-satisfaction (items that aide in obtaining wealth)? How can we involve the community and external organizations? Transitions from Elementary to Middle to High Schools What programs are in place currently? How does middle school credit assist in high school graduation? How and when are we identifying at-risk learners during the transitions? What role would an 8.5 grade play in transition to high school? How do we transition parents? Would educator vertical teaming aid in the transition process? If so, how? What would it look like? Identification of At-risk Learners and Action Steps How do we weight risk factors? When do we identify at-risk learners? What role can the community play in lessening the risk factors? What programs and interventions are currently in place for at-risk learners? How can we use technology in the identification of at-risk learners? How do we use graduation coaches and counselors? Student-Educator Relationships How do we foster educational relationships? Do educators know how and when to foster relationships? Are extracurricular activities important? How do we get students involved? Are there schools that are good models? How do we develop caring, personal school climates? Climates with high expectations for faculty and students? Would horizontal teaming, professional learning be vehicles to create such climates? 102 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Economics of Education Summit Comments COMMUNITY AND FAMILY COMMUNICATION AND INVOLVEMENT BREAKOUT SESSION 1. Best forms of Communications Emails from teachers Parent portal, E-news, website, Face Book, Twitter Backpack notes Auto dialer ANGEL – online – good for students Home visits Cell phones, texting Forsyth County News Face-to-face (Social workers, native speakers) Transition service Telephonic support Homeroom mom emails or other small groups Recording videos/emails to pull in parents without a great deal of spending 2. Communication Challenges Lack of technology Lack of trust, will not share needs Information overload – simplify Lack of knowledge of services and rights Child is the main source of information and serves as an interpreter Coordinate services – available Communication plan Cultural changes/differences Literacy needs of adults have not been met Attitudes toward education Social stigma Organize parents to carpool to get kids to activities Strengthening parent involvement and education Parents need to know that they are welcome in middle/high school GED Program – connecting parents there as well. 3. How Can Parents and Community Best Communicate with Schools? FCHS’s forum at a church Communicate with Pre-K parents Consider meetings outside the school ELL/Hispanic focus groups Bus stop conversations ELL messages by phone Parent BLOG Direct communication with teacher Transportation Point of contact for business and community PTA online groups for dissemination of information, updates, monitored Value opinions of parents Concerns from persons without students in the school Does the system want to hear from us? Emails from agencies to FCS 103 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Availability in person – board and leaders Hotlines for reporting Invite participation RELEVANCE TO LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL BREAKOUT SESSION 1. How does curriculum relate to outside careers? Some college and tech prep classes (marketing but only certain jobs) Math – think how does it help? Financial classes seem more relevant. Some should be dedicated to what we use after graduation Real Life University – whole set of skills that need to be learned Financial and health literacy need to be taught – practical skills – logical thinking High level of skills required just for basic jobs – struggle to find qualified individual – need to communicate to schools Course selection in high school may be irrelevant – high school is learning how to learn and life skills Whether the curriculum studied is relevant, the fact that they want to prove that they are a learner and stick with it goes far – commitment and work ethic is important – degree is not enough If someone can pick up on something in the curriculum that they can relate to outside careers, not as likely to drop out Learning skills (oral, math, group life skills) 2. Is the curriculum students learn relevant to real world experiences? Strides toward making math relevant – needs to be holistic Students undecided about majors – high school curriculum should be more helpful Stretching yourself and taking classes that may not seem relevant, makes you better prepared and more well rounded Effective citizenship – best teachers are the ones that connect curriculum to current issues How can we make it relevant? – Real life examples of curriculum Learning from adults and how THEY did it – trying to place themselves on a relevant path and can’t see the path – beginning to understand how to find the path Can’t give up – can’t drop out – keep trying to connect So focused on testing Students don’t actually talk about current issues – being engaged at home and school – ways to learn that are relevant – time in school dedicated to learning what’s going on in the news 3. How do strong CTAE programs assist in establishing relevancy? 4. What successful models are available? Ask “What do you want to do when you graduate high school?” – high schools are not preparing for jobs but for learning how to learn – are the skills being learned in high school, going to help in whatever career they go into? – Build students who have a base of knowledge – being able to communicate effectively – not everything will have a direct tie to a job but it will help to learn next skills that will be relevant Engaging the students to volunteer to be at school Not static, everything’s fluid – it’s about processes – not irrelevant, just forget it All students are different, how do we go from there? 5. What do paths to technical schools and colleges look like? How to get students to look at technical schools as well? Larger focus on college rather than technical schools – highlighting importance of technical schools and what they have to offer Sometimes kids don’t want to go on to more school Talking about passions and what we are able to do with that Technical school co-ops should be available – put value to the technical school Technical schools are the best kept secret – need backup plans Cumming City Hall has MBA available Interdisciplinary in high school – middle school more about academics and basics – losing kids at middle school level because they don’t see how it connects and relates, and see on down the road 104 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life See the connection and how curriculum will make connections to careers 6. How do we connect the curriculum and learning to assist students in understanding that knowledge and education are pathways to a quality life and self-satisfaction? 7. How can we communicate to at-risk students the opportunities available? Give them the opportunity to get into the work place Awareness of the opportunities – teachers that could come in and help with certain disciplines Ask students what would help them stay in school – dual enrollment – students not just hearing about it, but actually getting out and doing it – community mentors 8. How to use internship and shadowing to establish relevancy? 9. How do we involve the community and external organizations? Not just a teacher issue, it’s everyone – engage entire community – family discussions Community business leaders should try to come into schools and talk to students TRANSITIONS FROM ELEMENTARY TO MIDDLE TO HIGH SCHOOL BREAKOUT SESSION 1. Good Transition Program Helping 8th graders with classes Coordination between teachers to prepare Study skills and note taking skills (8th & 9th grade) Organizational skills Talk about options with classes Accountability Knowledge of responsibility Informing parents Special education plan from 8th- 9th grade Teachers in transitional grade go to the next school for information No one time event (over a period of time) evaluation Guidance and sharing the various options Graduation profile Looping – teachers move with the transition group to the high school Clear expectations for parents, teachers and students Understanding the GPA and course requirements Importance of being involved 2. High School Credits in Middle School Only targeting kids who are going to graduate anyway Have extra credits and be able to explore what they want to do later in life State regulations hamper though Motivation tool for struggling students 3 years of P.E. and Health = the course credit for P.E. and Health in High School Help prepare for high school 3. 8.5 Transition Strategy If the child succeeded in one or more areas– continue on. But the one area they failed – 8.5 Could catch up and get the support needed Motivational tool Emotional incentive Need to be hit in all grades (start earlier) Do something different when retained Transition for kids who move in 4. Purpose in Life Get away from occupation labels (interests and strengths) Exposure to as many careers as possible 105 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life No one time thing Invite parents to talk about jobs and education requirements. IDENTIFICATION OF AT-RISK LEARNERS AND ACTION STEPS BREAKOUT SESSION 1. Characteristics Disconnect with school – no clubs, bands, etc. No vested interest in education – hard to look to the future Parents do not place value in education Parents making attendance and grades a priority With single parents, attendance, behavior, live with someone other than parents Academic deficits, language Learning Environments (drugs at home, abuse) Hard for students to focus – no coping skills Exposure to academics (no crayons, books) Adults who drop out – learning disability, no relevance, no motivation Misidentification – need for being in the right environment Failing two courses, retention Truancy 2. Identifying At-Risk Learners Early notification-be able to change the result Early intervention (1-3 years old of age) Parent notification about programs to help Know more about students 3. Timeline for Identification Middle School – 6th grade High School – too late (or almost) Babies Can’t Wait Early Intervention Cannot read by 3rd grade Pre-school 4. Books, not Barbie’s How can we create a sense of urgency? 5. Who are key players? Parents, community Whispering Hope Head Start Educators Medical – new parents Social Services 6. What is the motivator for at-risk families to seek and take advantage of resources? There may be a lack of resources and/or knowledge of those resources such as transportation. 7. Interventions in Place Pre-K – 12th Grade Mentoring Tutoring Kick It Up Clubs Parents assigned to mentors Mentor Me North Georgia Response to Intervention (RTI) 106 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Business partners and retired citizens - possible mentors Before and After School Programs Title I Work programs After School Activities BIRTH- 5 Babies Can’t Wait Child Find Speech Challenge Child Ferst Foundation Head Start Early Head Start Pre-school/Daycare Elementary Before/After school programs Early Intervention Program Title I Special education. support Benchmark progress monitoring Gap in service for parents who need support before someone intervenes (mandated intervention) Homework assists parent training school/parent English classes for parents Middle/High Kick It Up Clubs Graduation coaches Share teams – nurses, counselor, grad coach, social workers School clubs Advisement Non traditional learning opportunities Transition plan activities for special education Jesse’s House Bald Ridge Truancy Court support 8. What do we need to do? Mentors – students and parents (for both) Mentor parents for K student parents I.D. at-risk students and assign to a teacher Assign parents also Encourage participation in current volunteering /mentoring opportunities Mentor Me North Georgia School mentors Personal planning Community Connections – Family Connection Implementation of plans Universal contact (Partnership) Head Start Directory (Partnership) Faith-based childhood getting churches involved Work with them 107 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Math skills Math specialists Critical thinking skills STUDENT-EDUCATOR RELATIONSHIPS BREAKOUT SESSION 1. Extracurricular Presence at “outside” events Targeting non-involved families Financial assistance Eliminate embarrassment factor Moving away from purely financial aid Less time constraints Looking for students with similar experiences Reduce disenfranchisement Build relationships beyond the phone Recent college graduates Have a personal investment in the school 2. Raising involvement Pursuing grants to build funding to build these systems Simply being aware of a child’s situation Rewarding teachers for fostering relationships Correcting miscommunication and misinformation Teacher training – possible child education on social skills (rhetoric classes) Searching for a way to connect Honing skills needed to develop relationships with students Positive interaction with adults Balancing an emotional relationship with high academic standards Individually invite struggling students to review/recovery sessions Maximizing available time Moving from “whole class” instruction to more individualized attention Reducing class sizes and number of classes Give up planning time to develop relationships Need teachers who care Positive support through involvement Time for discussions/connections Do not wait until frustration sets in Pulling in one adult to alleviate pressure in numerous areas Focus in elementary schools Establishing a positive view of school on the whole Working with the student to give them a sense of future and potential “Why Try?” program – fostering the idea that today matters in terms of tomorrow (vocational programs to encourage that) 3. Flexibility in curriculum Allotting time individually to help grow success The pressure of curriculum and standards sometimes stand in the way of forming meaningful relationships with students 4. Do not underestimate the power of incentive Simple rewards have significant impact 5. Responsibility lies with the educators to seek out at-risk children and help them 108 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life PROPEL Education Summit Participants Anderson Amy Glenn Elaine McGruder Mary Helen Anderson Dana Goff Kim McLendon Julie Atkinson Brooke Goode Ruth Metzler Linda Barber Diane Gravitt Ford Mills Cindy J. Bennett Lisa Hahn Ruth Moon Tracy Bennett Mackenzie Hahn Marshall Moon Betsy Benvenuto Julie Hall John Moran Todd Bixler Maureen Hamilton Mark Morrisey Kristin Boschelli Laura Hamilton Michelle Morse Kristan Bourneuf Beth Harrison Bobby Mullen Marsha Bowman Jerry Heath John Mullen Marsha Boylan Stephanie Hebert Beth Murphy Denise Branch Jason Holcombe Gabrielle Nissen Tina Brinson Donna Holzer Tamera North Terri Brozovic Susan Hooks, Meredith Norton Candy Brunson Leslie Hopkins Tim O'Neal Donna Buster Evans Huffman Nicole Owens Royce Buursema Beth Hunt Jeff Parks Mary Calvert Christine Jackson David Perez-Pascoe Virgilio Caracciolo Jennifer Jackson J. Russell Pijanowski Lissa Carpenter Kathy Jackson Lynn Jennifer Chambers Paul Johnson Nancy Pirrung PizarroRivera Cheney Jeff Jolly Kathy Pruitt Bonita Childress Toni Jordan Scott Roche Nancy Cohen Jeff Kelly Suzanne Rock Marcus Cowie, Vanessa Kieffer, John John Rohacek Kathy Crow Ann Lambert Dianna Roling Kayla Currie Jernice Lea Nicole Rondem Debbie Darlington Susan Light Darla Rusk Rebecca Davis Nancy Lloyd Wayne Salloum Cindy Davis, Shirley Love Mandy Sanders Savannah Davison Gary Luthart Michelle Sanders Laurie Deraney Steven Malone Norma Savage Brigid Evans Cindy Mashburn David Schoier Donna Flores Miguel Massey Roxanne Schultz Brenda Fowler Tom Max Sue Shadburn Lacy Gamez Amy McCoy James Shirley Todd Geralds Kim McCoy Nicole Shope Shelley Gessell Donna McCrary Connie Silveus Eric Gibby Amy McGinnis Bonnie Priscilla 109 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Smith Terry Thomas Brenda West Paul Smith Mary Thwaits Kevin Westbrook Elizabeth Smith Thom Tinsley Sandy Wheeler Russ Sol Amy Todd Austin Wolinsky Mark Starr Ashley Toussaint Randall Young Judy Stewart Lorraine Tworek Genise Harrison Fonda Stovall Suh (Motovario) Connie Underwood Ethan Price Kelly Walden Janet Taylor Sarah Walker Andrew James 110 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life Forsyth County Schools & Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce PROPEL: The Economics of Education Summit September 10, 2010 Evaluation/Feedback Conference Logistics Facilities Organization Great room and food; Excellent location, central location; Chairs could be more comfortable – not a big deal; Excellent. Well done; Well organized; Prompt; Excellent cooperation and communication; Great opportunity for a diverse cross section to brainstorm. Opening Session The Economics of Education From Engage Me to Challenge Me Calculating the Graduation Rate Speaker has great personality and easily engages the communities; Very informative; Very informative and relevant; The notes included with the slide handouts were great; Do what it takes to make it happen; Excellent speaker, engaging presentation; Great information shared; Enjoyed Dr. Dolinger; Shocking to see the comparison of states, what’s Massachusetts doing. Speaker has great personality and easily engages the communities; Very informative; The notes included with the slide handouts were great; Excellent speaker, engaging presentation; Great focus and ways to have help from people of all ages. Still not clear to me; More handouts with examples; Would like to have learned more about the calculation; Very informative; A little more comparisons with “Best” states; Didn’t explain the current method well enough; Excellent speaker, engaging presentation; Surprised to hear about it starting at third grade, gets you energized and into action; A little confusing; Too short and fast-paced; Too much, too fast; Lots of numbers, I’m more a people person - we needed the handout of the PowerPoint. Break-out Sessions Community & Family Communication & Involvement Relevance to Life After High School Transitions from Elementary to Middle to High Schools Identification of Atrisk Learners & Action Steps) Student-Educator Relationships Could have used more time, need to address who we need to communicate with, who audience is, and how best to communicate; Might have been good to have more time; Nicole and Kathy were wonderful; Great group participation; The real need is the engagement of those who need the most help; What happens next; Moved along well, more diverse group that included the at-risk families and students would have added a lot; Lots of good interaction and ideas; Can’t wait to see some of the ideas implemented; Good conversation and brainstorming of ideas and solutions; This was excellent, keep up the good work; I was happy to see so many of the business people of the community; Well facilitated, great discussion. Aside from Student-Educator Relationship, this is perhaps the most important; Engage the community in explaining relevance; Great student involvement; Not very memorable; Digressed from topic a bit but was very productive; Great mix of students, teachers, business people - excellent discussion. Very thought provoking – happy to be a part of the conversation; Excellent discussion and participation: Great to have students there, great ideas, great facilitators; Many different ideas, all genius; So many ideas really should be considered; More student involvement is needed; The transition group was really interesting; Variety of feedback; Variety with feedback; Truthfully, enjoyed feedback and guidance of group leaders; Very important and great session. Excellent facilitation and organization; Good job of everyone getting to speak, validating all thoughts and ideas; Positive and productive; Define early at-risk - vocational vs. college; How does this affect the budget; Our diversity created a challenge for the facilitators – they handled it well; Enjoyed discussing concerns and positives with other teachers and members in community; This session was informative. Able to generate great ideas; How to unload teachers of administrative work to focus on these relationships; Let’s begin a teacher/student mentor program in middle schools and high schools; Great to see the community get on board with these efforts; Great session – loved hearing input from various stakeholders – need more of this; Fantastic opportunity to share and to learn from a student, judge, and fellow teachers - awesome springboard for great things to come, starting today. 111 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life General Comments: I was pleased to see how well Forsyth County is ranked and that we are striving for more! Wish all three speakers were given more time. I had an amazing experience today. It was great to be able to intake this vital information and thank you for inviting me to this event and I’m glad that I was allowed to give some input. This presentation was a brilliant idea! A week prior to the next summit, send out a pre-read. I couldn’t wrap my head around Forsyth schools and the weaknesses/strengths. Invite a few more students to express their ideas. Many students have different ideas and opinions, which can be put together to form a great program. Excited for the next meeting! Survey dropout students, research why? As a student, I didn’t know about a lot of programs – iAchieve, summer classes, etc. I think you should promote that, and I think capturing student interest is going to be the reason for increased graduation rate. If you are bored in class (like having to sit through health lessons for the fourth time) you’re going to resent going to class. I think you’re going in the right direction with programs in school like Journalism, Marketing Principles, Engineering, etc. Challenging students’ strengths is the way to go. Great program, really interesting, makes students happy to think you are listening to what we have to say. The students who have been invited to this along with the student advisory meetings have finally started to come together on a social level and become more comfortable with each other. This means they are becoming less and less shy and conservative with their ideas. Please invite the same group of kids to further meetings. Thank you for doing this for the community! Linking education to economic development is a must. Education is not just about learning bits of knowledge, It’s about learning them in the context of skills – reading, math, student, learning, group work, writing, oral communication, interpersonal communication – all that contribute to life success. Not sure how many parents were invited, but I wish more had attended. 112 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life APPENDIX E LIST OF COMMUNITY PARTICIPANTS City Council of Cumming Service Master Scientific Games City of Cumming Regions Bank of North Georgia Forsyth County Commission CB Smith & Associates Forsyth County News Forsyth County Board of Education Judge Phil Smith Trox USA Leadership Forsyth AC Poultry H&H Staffing McGraw Snadler Training Motovario Publix Peach State Promotions Thomas Lumber Comcast Hansgrohe Northeast Georgia Medical Center ReMax 400 North Northside Hospital-Forsyth & Health System North Fulton Regional Medical Johnston & Associcates Lanier Technical College Center BB&T Automation Direct Wal-Mart Hoover Precision Products Wachovia Keller Williams Gwinnett Gladiators Hansgrohe Sawnee EMC AJC Lafarge Aggregates Jesse's House Clarion Stormwater Solutions Siemens Bald Ridge Lodge Chris Cleaners Batson Cook Jesse's House United Community Bank Keller Williams Forsyth County Advocacy Tyson Solvay Center Gwinnett Gladiators Forsyth County Educators School Social Worker Sandler Sales Comcast Next Generation Focus Horizon Construction City of Cumming Morning Star Fisher & Philips Pond & Co. Child Advocacy Center Saint Joseph's Hospital Cardinal Logistics SAFFT CRS Solutions Crescent Bank Juvenile Court Norman's Landing The Avenue Forsyth Bald Ridge Lodge Mimms Enterprises American Proteins Crossroads Citizens Bank of Forsyth County Jordan Jones & Goulding Victim Advocate Joe Powell & Associates Forsyth County Schools Library RBM of Atlanta North Radical Support Community Connection Taumban AT&T Sheriff's Office SunTrust AGL Resources Mentor Me Dekalb Office Pre-Paid Legal CareSouth Northside Hospital Russell Landscape Group Childress Klein MetCam Atlanta Braves Georgia Power First Citizens Bank of Georgia Data Supplies Georgia MRI L-3 Communications 113 PROPEL Pathways for Reaching Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence in Life 114