Barrington High School creates plan to improve

Though more than 75 percent of their students have exceeded state standards in math and reading, Barrington High School officials know there's more work to be done.

While the scores are well above state averages, the high school was still deemed a failing one in 2006 by the state because of the performances of several groups of students.

This week, Barrington High Associate Principal Scott Kasik presented the Barrington Unit District 220 school board with a plan to make sure those students are better prepared for state exams come spring.

"We are committed to addressing the educational needs of all of our students," he said.

All Illinois school districts are required to give standardized tests annually. The Prairie State Achievement Exams are designed to give schools a detailed look at how students are faring in reading, math, writing, science and social science.

But besides overall scores, the state also gives districts specific information on the performance of student subgroups, such as racial minorities and those who have limited English proficiency or disabilities or receive free or reduced-price lunches.

If just one subgroup with at least 45 students doesn't meet the target percentage established by the state, the school fails.

Kasik said that last year, Hispanic students didn't meet state standards in reading, while economically disadvantaged students failed to meet standards in reading and math.

Failing schools are mandated by the state to submit school improvement plans designed to ensure all students meet standards.

Kasik said the school has developed a freshman reading program, added a full-time specialist and brought in a retired reading teacher to serve as a consultant.

"We want to get reluctant readers a little more into reading," Kasik said.

The district also is giving eighth-graders a new assessment exam designed to get a better feel for their ability levels as they enter high school.

"This will better help us analyze their strengths and areas that need growth," he said.

The high school also has developed a special math academy for struggling students.

The academy, which offers focused and intense math training, has 48 students enrolled this year.

Other strategies in the improvement plan include the creation of a guided study program for students who failed two or more classes the previous semester.

"This is so students can develop the skills needed to pass their courses," he said.

School board members viewed the plan favorably.

"This shows some good critical thinking," board President Brian Battle said.

The next round of state exams for high school students is scheduled for April.