Columbus Schools planning for student achievement

(by Megan Edwards, Staff Writer - May 06, 2009)

The Columbus City Schools are looking for ways to make students more successful.

At its May 5 meeting, the board approved the superintendent and curriculum department's compliance with the instructional program executive limitation monitoring report.

This monitoring report broadly examines the district's ability to provide academic programs that will meet the needs, interests and aptitudes of students in the district, all while preparing the students for life after high school.

In a brief presentation, interim Chief Academic Office Evelyn Bell and Suzy Rhett, director of curriculum for K-8, explained the district's curriculum is based on the Ohio Academic Content Standards.

Students in the district have a variety of options to meet unique needs, such as alternative schools, art specific programs, technical and career programs and more. All programs are monitored on a regular basis. The district has school leadership teams and building councils as well as positive behavior intervention support and professional development to assist with the maintenance of the curriculum.

Board member W. Shawna Gibbs asked administrators how the district was addressing performance and programming in middle school grades.
 
"We're always looking at the data where we have gaps and issues," said Superintendent Gene Harris. "Middle school is no different. We have worked hard to increase in the rigor there, to offer high school credits there. And with the passage of the levy, we have been able to extend the day for students, and bring things back to where they originally were as well as make sure the schedules are appropriate."

Bell added the curriculum department and district staff is always looking at how to give middle school students a "great start for success." The district seeks to make the transition from elementary school to middle school smooth by offering orientation for sixth graders as well as meeting with sixth grade teachers.

Gibbs also asked how the district was handling high-performing students.
 
According to Harris, the district is focusing on a consistency with all schools in the district, especially specialty-program schools. Harris added the district also offers gifted and talented programs for students who are identified as gifted and talented.

^ back to top