HARVEY—(August 27, 2019) — Jefferson Parish Schools students grew at a rate that outpaced the average state increase. JP Schools also comprised over half of the schools demonstrating the most growth in the Greater New Orleans area. Those are some of the results as the Louisiana Department of Education released statewide progress data today and celebrated schools and school systems where students are making progress toward fully mastering key concepts and skills in English language arts and math.
“This is a testament to our schools picking kids up where they are and moving them to the next level,” said JP Schools Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley. “We still have a long road ahead of us to achieve our goals, but this is an exciting step forward for our parish.”
Student progress scores demonstrate how well students in grades 4-12 are progressing towards fully mastering key concepts in ELA and math. JP Schools grew by a percentage point in both ELA and math. In 2019, 46% of students displayed growth in ELA and 44% showed growth in math. Statewide, students dropped a point in ELA and grew by a percentage point in math.
The state recognized outstanding schools in each region for growth. Of the 15 schools recognized for growth in Greater New Orleans, eight are from JP Schools. Those schools are Patrick Taylor Academy (66% top growth in ELA & math), Keller Elementary (65%), Laureate Academy (63%), St. Ville Elementary (63%), Haynes Academy (63%), Metairie Academy (60%), Riverdale High (59%), and Thibodeaux Elementary (59%).
Growth among African American and economically disadvantaged students in JP Schools also outpaced the average state growth. Both saw a percentage point of growth. JP Schools did see a drop in growth among its English language learners and students with disabilities. The district is piloting new measures to provide these students with the support they need to succeed.
The student progress measure will make up 25 percent of an elementary or middle school's overall performance score and 12.5 percent of a high school's overall performance score.
Jefferson Parish Schools is the largest and most diverse public school system in Louisiana and the 98th largest in the nation. Our system of 82 schools serves around 50,000 students on both banks of the Mississippi River. With approximately 7,000 employees, JP Schools is one of the largest employers in Jefferson Parish. Our district exists to provide the education our students deserve to succeed in life and make our world a better place. Click here to read the strategic plan, 2024: The Future Our Kids Deserve.
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