To: Asha Riley, Superintendent
From: David Starkey, CES Principal
Date: October 24, 2024
RE: Columbia Elementary Board Report
School Improvement Focus:
Over the last two years, we have focused diligently on our core CKLA (Tier 1) curriculum and instruction. This year, we are continuing that effort but adding another layer. Our fall has been dedicated to looking at how to support students in the classroom during our small group (Focus) time. Teachers have been looking deeply at student assessments and determining what skills our students are needing additional help with during our literacy block. They are making shifts from leveled based groups to skill based groups. This ensures that students are getting the support needed to fill any gaps that might be limiting their reading success.
Columbia Recognition- Success Story:
Many of Columbia students have barriers that can make their educational journey more difficult than others. Columbia currently has just shy of 50% of its students who are eligible for free and reduced lunch. Nearly 6.5% of students at Columbia are labeled as McKinney-Vento/Homeless and 54 students who are developing their English proficiency. Additionally, Columbia has over 38% of its students who are struggling with absenteeism, missing more than 15 days per school year. It is a testament to our students and our teachers that we have continued to push that academic boulder up the hill despite the heavy burden many of our students are dealing with in their family situations. Because of the relentless efforts our students and staff have given over the past few years in my tenure, we are starting at the highest academic level Columbia has seen. Just four short years ago, Columbia started the year at 24% proficiency in the DIBELS assessment. We are proud to say that we are starting the year with 51%.
Upcoming Events at Columbia Elementary:10/22- CES Open House
10/28- PBIS Assembly
10/29- PTSA Walk-a-thon
10/31- Professional Development (SEL)
11/1- Professional Development (TPEP)
11/8- Veterans Day Assembly