BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Martin County schools witnessed an increase from the previous year in their overall scores on the Spring 2023 Kentucky Summative Assessment (KSA).
This annual assessment, administered to public school students in grades 3 through 8, 10 and 11, encompasses a variety of content areas such as reading and mathematics (grades 3 through 8 and 10), science (grades 4, 7, 11), on-demand writing and editing and mechanics (grades 5, 8, 11) and social studies (grades 5, 8, 11).
In alignment with the new state accountability system, schools are assigned a color based on their performance (Red (lowest), Orange, Yellow, Green and Blue (highest)). The overall score is an aggregate measure that includes reading/math, science/social studies/writing, the Quality of School Climate and Safety Survey results, postsecondary readiness (for high schools), and graduation rate (for high schools).
Martin County Schools Superintendent Larry James shared insights into the district’s strategy for success.
“As a district, we have implemented several initiatives to improve student achievement,” he remarked. “These initiatives include response to intervention teachers at each of our elementary schools, a district instructional coach, and professional learning opportunities for our teachers with a focus on high-yield instructional strategies.”
Leading the district, Martin County High School boasted the highest overall score, achieving a Yellow rating with a 67.5 overall score. Eden Elementary sustained its Yellow rating from the previous year, securing a 55.3 overall score. Meanwhile, Inez Elementary, Warfield Elementary and Martin County Middle School each earned an Orange rating.
In individual school achievements, Inez Elementary reported an increase in the percentage of students scoring proficient and distinguished in reading and math.
Both Warfield Elementary and Eden Elementary received a Blue rating on the Quality of School Climate and Safety Survey.
Martin County High School received a Blue rating for the postsecondary indicator score, with 84% of the graduating seniors being career- or academic-ready.
Martin County Middle School was awarded a Green rating on the Quality of School Climate and Safety Survey. However, the middle school has also been designated as a Targeted Support and Improvement school, with one student group performing in the bottom 5%.
Superintendent James assured that an improvement plan is in motion to address specific student needs and increase student achievement.
“As a district, we will continue to work hard and provide the best possible education for all our students,” added James.
To see in-depth KSA results visit the School Report Card at kyschoolreportcard.com.