To: Asha Riley, Superintendent
From: David Starkey, CES Principal
Date: April 24, 2025
RE: Columbia Elementary Board Report
School Improvement Focus:
Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) season is quickly approaching, and our 3rd and 4th grade teachers have been working hard to help students feel confident and prepared. While strong performance on these assessments is built over years of learning, our team has been intentional this year in focusing on both academic content and essential test-taking strategies. Through the use of interim assessments, students have had opportunities to practice in test-like settings, helping them become more comfortable with the format and question types they’ll encounter.
In previous years, we’ve noticed a gap between our students’ benchmark assessment scores and their SBA results. This year, with more targeted support and structured practice, we’re aiming to close that gap. Teachers have provided extra instruction tailored to student needs, built stamina through practice sessions, and encouraged a positive testing mindset. We’ve seen encouraging growth in our benchmark data, and with the dedication of our staff and the hard work of our students, we are hopeful that this progress will be reflected in our SBA scores as well. Regardless of the outcome, we are proud of the effort our students have shown and the commitment of our staff to their success.
Columbia Recognition- Success Story:
From late February to mid-March, all 3rd and 4th grade students at Columbia Elementary took part in a bicycle unit funded through a special grant in partnership with ESD 112. During the unit, students learned essential bike safety skills, how to ride a bike, the rules of the road, and proper bike etiquette. Lessons took place 1–2 times a week during their regular PE classes and were held both in the gym and outside on the school’s new walking track, giving students a safe and supportive environment to practice. This amazing opportunity would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Mrs. Nesbitt. She was the driving force behind bringing this program to Columbia Elementary. Mrs. Nesbitt coordinated with the grant director, organized parent volunteers for each class, and showed incredible flexibility to make sure every student could participate. Her leadership made a huge impact. One of the most exciting outcomes was that six students who didn’t previously know how to ride a bike learned to ride independently by the end of the unit—a huge accomplishment and a memory they’ll never forget!
Upcoming Events at Columbia Elementary:
4/28: School Wide Recognition Assembly
5/2: PTSA K-8 Burgerville Fundraiser
5/5-8: Staff Appreciation Week
5/9: No School
5/22: CES Incoming Kinder Night