July 20, 2000
Prepping for proficiency
By Cathy Willoughby
Staff Writer
CLYDE - More than 100 Clyde children in kindergarten through the sixth grade are getting a head start on proficiency test skills this summer.
Clyde Schools has redirected its elementary summer school program to focus on "Literacy and Beyond.''
"We were looking at what we can do to improve student performance on the proficiencies,'' said Jeanne Pritchard, elementary curriculum director. "This will help them be more comfortable with the testing situation.''
Pritchard stressed the importance of preparation with the fourth grade reading guarantee. "The following school year the students will have just three chances to pass the fourth grade reading portion,'' she said.
Students were recommended by teachers, their parents or by poor grades on their report cards.
Letters were sent to parents of students identified as needing extra help. It was then up to the parent or guardian to register for the program, that began July 5 and is continuing through July 26.
The program focuses on reading and mathematics, using computer programs and reinforcing what was learned during the year. "There are a lot of computer programs that are increasing their focus on the proficiency standards,'' Pritchard said. "And 'Everyday Math' is used which is very much a hands on program; they use manipulatives to understand a concept.''
Work is also being done to improve writing skills to line them up with the state models for writing. "We are teaching the children the processes of writing,'' Pritchard explained. "Starting with the first draft, going through editing to the final drafting of the piece. And being sure what they are writing is in the proper form for their audience, that they will understand it.''
Students also read a poem or literary selection, and are required to write a response to it.
Other activities are also used to augment the program, such as a reading presentation by Clyde Public Library every Thursday and Friday.