SERIOUS FUN -- HIGH SCHOOL PEP RALLY HIGHLIGHTS SUCCESSFUL PROGRAM BOOSTING
TEST SCORES, STAR WARS STYLE
WHAT: A Tierrasanta high school takes STAR Wars approach to prepping for
standardized tests, engaging students and getting results. By de-mystifying
the test and what it's for and devoting resources to helping students
prepare, school officials get great buy-in from students.
WHEN: 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 28
WHERE: Serra High School gym, 5156 Santo Road (92124). School: (619)
496-8342. Parking on west side of campus.
WHAT: This is testing time in schools all over San Diego. These tests can
determine whether or not a school is labeled "failing" by the federal
government. Serra takes an innovative -- and fun -- approach to the annual
rite of spring that is standardized testing. Capping off weeks of academic
preparation, Serra throws a big football-style pep rally complete with
cheerleaders. There will be skits, raps, and other tension-releasing fun.
Possibly even a STAR Wars light-saber duel.
Serra students sometimes face challenges reaching the benchmark achievement
levels. It is a Title 1 school that educates many students whose parents are
active duty military and in war zones. Therefore the increase in student
achievement as well as a winning approach to academics are both worth the
spotlight.
WHY: A great vehicle to show the inside of how one school makes
accountability work for its students.
There are some 5 million California public school students right now taking
or about to undertake these federally-mandated and state-mandated
standardized tests. Serra does more than just give its students sharpened
No. 2 pencils. It spends weeks gearing up for the testing, tutoring and
counseling students. The event brings the whole school together to focus on
boosting standards.
And it works. In 2008, Serra's STAR Wars comprehensive approach increased
API score by 66 points. This was the largest growth of any comprehensive
high school in the history of San Diego Unified School District.
The pep rally caps the preparation for the test. Come join in the serious
fun.
Contacts
Mike Jimenez, principal, (858) 496-8342, mjimenez5@sandi.net.
Operations Supervisor Jeff Thomas (858) 496-8342 x-202, jthomas1@sandi.net
Lisa Petrillo, SD Unified Communications, (619) 725-7747,
lpetrillo@sandi.net
Students, teachers and counselors will be available for interviews
More information and a Serra High student-produced video about testing
available on the SDUSD Website at www.sandi.net/testsmart
# # #
Jack Brandais Communications Department San Diego Unified School District
(619) 725-5570 (Desk) (619) 607-0477 (Cell)
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