Dr. Bolton detailed the NJGPA, a mandatory assessment for all 11th graders in New Jersey, and explained the district’s approach to ensure students meet graduation requirements. For those not achieving the required score of 725 in ELA and math, alternative pathways such as retesting and standardized test scores (ACT, SAT) are available. The report noted that while 26 students initially did not meet the ELA requirement and 57 for math, all those needing a portfolio assessment eventually satisfied graduation readiness.

Adjustmentsttention was given to the performance of students with disabilities, with a noted 3% increase in passing scores from the previous year. The mean scale score for this group was 732. Dr. Bolton emphasized the ongoing support provided to these students and the deep analysis of test scores by district supervisors to identify areas of improvement.

The board also discussed the ESL program, which assesses students’ language skills annually. The program successfully transitions students to proficiency, with a noticeable decrease in participants after two to three years. This trend is attributed to effective collaboration between ESL and mainstream teachers, with ESL instructors providing push-in instruction to model best practices.