District news
Washington School Improvement Framework results released
Washington’s new accountability system has launched, and schools are being identified under the new Washington School Improvement Framework (WSIF), as called for in the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). But what is the Framework, and what does it mean for Arlington schools?
The WSIF is the framework for accountability in Washington state. Each school is measur
ed on the Framework, and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) has identified schools for additional supports, called Comprehensive and Targeted supports.
The goal of the ESSA Plan, developed after the passage of the law in 2015 and which underlies the WSIF, is equity and flexibility. Every student deserves the opportunity to finish school ready for post-secondary aspirations, career, and life. New guidance under Washington’s ESSA Plan allows districts to shift the paradigm, and break down funding silos to develop programs that will help our students finish school prepared for our changing world.
What makes up the WSIF scores? There are nine measures in total. Growth and proficiency still make up a big part of the scores, for both English language arts and mathematics. Also important are graduation rate and English learner progress. Additionally, there are three new school quality and student success (SQSS) measures meant to help parents and families, as well as school districts, understand the overall school climate, which goes beyond academics. These measures are regular attendance, 9th graders on track to graduation, and dual credit or advanced course-taking opportunities.
Link to Arlington Public Schools' scores
Kindergarten registration now open!
Kindergarten registration for Arlington Public Schools families is now open. Parents may go to the office of their neighborhood school to complete a registration packet. More information is available here.
Annual report and school performance reports now available
The Arlington Public Schools 2016-17 Annual Report and 2016-17 School Performance Reports are now available. The purpose of these reports is to inform parents, guardians and other members of the community about student performance in the schools and districtwide. The reports includes current and previous year student assessment results, school-level plans to achieve student learning goals and other information.
Arlington Public Schools named to AP District Honor Roll for the first time
Arlington Public Schools has been named to AP District Honor Roll for the first time. APS is one of 447 school districts in the U.S. and Canada being honored by the College Board with placement on the honor roll. Advanced Placement (AP) is a program in the United States and Canada created by the College Board which offers college-level curricula and examinations to high school students. Read more here.
School attendance should be a priority every day
School is well underway and we want to see your child each day! Attending school r
egularly helps children feel better about school – and themselves. This habit should be started at a young age so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. Good attendance will help children do well in high school, college and work. Learn more about our attendance campaign.