California schools see growth in test scores, enrollment

California High School
California High School

California schools have more than 40 students more than this time a year ago.

Superintendent Dwight Sanders reported Wednesday at the regular board of education meeting that is the most growth the district has seen since 2000. Enrollment at 1,369 is the highest it's been since 2000.

The board also saw the results of the state assessments. This year, California scores exceeded the average state scores in 15 of 20 categories.

"We've seen good, solid growth," Sanders said.

He attributed part of the test score improvements to a computer program that measures what concepts students struggle with and helps teachers better meet those needs.

The schools also implemented a Response To Intervention program, which provides one-on-one help in content areas.

However, "I think our teachers are the No. 1 factor in good, quality growth," Sanders said.

To address the particularly low scores in the government content, the high school class has been extended from a semester to a year-long course.

"Our most concentrated effort has been in that content area," Sanders said.

In other business, the board:

Approved moving nine teachers a step over on the salary schedule as a result of their completing their master's degrees recently.

Declared 12 high school cafeteria tables obsolete, allowing a couple of local schools to reuse several of them.

Purchased a replacement John Deere mower for $6,741.

Learned the district's annual audit will be conducted Oct. 4-5.