WASC’s assessment at the same time allowed the school to “understand more what we need to do to improve student learning process,” KoES vice principal Erica Thornburgh said.
Because of the cooperation and commitment of its teachers, staff and administration, they were already confident last year to get the six-year accreditation, she added.
But Thornburgh said they “still have a lot to do, like training, and we need to change a lot about our grading system and awarding system. We need to change to meet the standard- based curriculum.”
The school, she said, will also strengthen its English language learning program and the overall safety of their facilities.
The WASC midterm progress report indicated that the major change affecting the school was the economic downturn that resulted in significant budget restrictions.
KoES, the report added, needs a full-time school nurse, a reading teacher and an employee who can “alleviate the combined vice principal/counselor position.”
The technology aide position should become a computer teacher position to help with the integration of technology in the curriculum, the report stated.
WASC cited five critical areas for the school’s self-study process:
• Improvements in student academic performance by raising the expectation of the faculty and students;
• The complete implementation of standards-based instruction with particular attention to the assessment of the attainment of standards;
• Strengthen the use of technology into the instructional program through faculty training and utilization of computers, not only in the computer lab but also in the classroom;
• A school-wide effort in developing and implementing a consistent discipline/attendance policy and behavior modification plan; and,
• A plan to identify and prioritize personnel, materials and facility needs to determine an appropriate allocation of funds.
In addressing its funding limitation, KoES should apply for grants, the report stated.
It added that partnerships and fundraising efforts can also supplement the school’s budget.
