A task force working to revamp the state’s system for evaluating public schools is requesting feedback from the public.
The group will hold four listening sessions over the next two weeks:
- April 1, 6-7 p.m. at NHED Event Center, 25 Hall St., Concord (This meeting will also be available via Zoom webinar)
- April 7, 6-7 p.m. at Pinkerton Academy Lecture Hall, 5 Pinkerton St., Derry
- April 13, 6-7 p.m. at Berlin Middle High School Library, 550 Willard St., Berlin
- April 15, 6-7 p.m. at Jonathan Daniels Professional Development Center, 227 Maple Ave., Keene (This meeting will also be available via YouTube)
Members of the task force are calling for the public to weigh in on proposed changes to the Performance-Based Accountability System, which the state implemented in 2017, according to a review of the system conducted last year.
The Department of Education relies on the system to determine which schools should receive targeted support.
The current system relies on six metrics: SAS and SAT test scores; student growth percentiles derived from those test scores; graduation rates; progress toward English language proficiency; a measure called “equity,” which weighs growth more heavily for low-performing students; and college and career readiness.
Under the proposed new system, the same indicators would be used, but the system would also incorporate a pair of more thorough reviews every three and six years.
More information about the proposal can be found here.
The task force has met several times since last year, according to a state accountability webpage. It must complete a report by the end of June.
The group is made up of several public school superintendents, principals, other educators and a school administrators association employee.
