Botelle Elementary School has been named one of 151 Schools of Distinction by the Connecticut State Department of Education for its great improvement. Overall, its accountability index rose to 72.9, up from 47.6 last year.
Only the top 10 percent of schools showing improvement are named Schools of DistinctionPrincipal Lauren Valentino said annual accountability ratings are based on 12 metrics determined by the state education department. “They look at a variety of factors for the ratings,” which measure student achievement, growth and improvement, she said.
Because Botelle is a single-school district with only 59 students in grades pre-K through six, many of the criteria do not apply. Botelle’s accountability ratings were largely based on student performance in English language arts (ELA) and math.
“They look at growth for students in those areas and set targets,” Valentino said. Botelle students performed at 82 percent of their growth target in ELA and at 77 percent for math.
Valentino said the school has a large high-needs population in grades 3 through 6, the grades tested. “When a child has an Individualized Education Plan and is working at a third-grade level, obviously he can’t meet sixth-grade testing expectations, so the state looks at growth,” she explained. “Our students have demonstrated growth.”
She attributed the improvement to two new teachers now working with students in the grades that were tested. “In addition, we have a new literacy specialist and special education team, and everyone has collaborated to make sure the kids are getting what they need,” Valentino said. “There’s been lots of collaboration, looking at how the students are performing and changing instructional strategies. This recognition reflects their efforts and dedication.”
She also gave credit to families and the wider Norfolk community for their support of the school.