Midland Park February 15, 2012 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • Page 9 Public school students’ standardized test scores have been improving in Midland Park, and Superintendent Dr. Marie Cirasella credits the district’s use of data analysis. “We have made data analysis a true focus here since I came on board. In my opinion, this has had a positive impact,” Dr. Cirasella said last week. “We’ve always had great kids, great families, and great teachers, but data analysis allows us to look at our instructional practices so we’re focused on the individual and not broad-brushing.” The educator noted that, among Bergen County’s public schools, Midland Park has had the greatest improvement in student scores on the High School Proficiency Assessment, or HSPA test. She said the district, which previously tested at the “proficient” level, is now testing at “high Standardized test scores improve in school district proficiency.” Scores have improved on the state’s benchmark tests, which include the NJ ASK taken by students in grades three through eight, and the HSPA taken by high school juniors. Dr. Cirasella acknowledged that a student’s performance on a test is “one snapshot on one day” of the individual’s academic life. However, she said academic progression is apparent when test scores are combined with other data. “We have to read all the barometers,” she added. Dr. Cirasella pointed out that the district conducts cohort assessments, which track students’ progress through the grades. “Most have been making progress,” she said, pointing out that this tracking program allows educators to pinpoint specific issues and remediate any problems. Assessments are also being made more frequently. The superintendent said that administrators have been conducting random, threeminute classroom walk-throughs, to allow them to “get a flavor of what’s going on in the building and determine appropriate follow-through.” The walk-throughs, she added, allow administrators to see the styles of instruction being employed and see how to differentiate the forms of instructional practice. The goal, she said, is to target the real problems, which is possible when there is relevant supporting data. “We’ve also taken a stronger look at curriculum and made some updates,” the superintendent continued, noting the importance of staying current with the state’s standards. Dr. Cirasella also said the district is looking at additional electives and new honors courses. School election (continued from page 7) resident participation, since a greater percentage of voters turn out for the November election than for the school election in April. Two options potentially remain for making the change: the borough council can force the move, or residents can present a petition to put the question on the ballot in the November election. But Mayor Bud O’Hagan expressed support for the board’s decision. “The board’s decision seems to be a compassionate decision keeping the taxpayers in mind. It shows that whatever the board’s budget might be, they feel it will be fair for both the educational needs and the cost containment desires of our taxpayers,” said O’Hagan. “Obviously, they are not fearful of budget votes and are willing to stand up and defend their choices. Most of the boards’ past budgets have passed by popular vote. It’s hard to satisfy all sides on budget issues. Ultimately, providing Midland Park children with a good educational program at a reasonable price is an admirable accomplishment,” he added. When the board first discussed the option last month, board President Robert Schiffer pointed out that in Midland Park taxpayers have a history of supporting responsible school budgets. The school budget was approved in eight of the past 10 years, and a $12 million referendum was also approved in 2003. The school budget was defeated only in 2004 and 2006, when taxes would have increased more than $300 on the average home. Now that the decision is made, previous filing deadlines for persons wishing to run for a seat on the school board are in effect. Nominating petitions signed by at least 10 registered voters must be submitted to the school board office by 4 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 27. Three three-year seats and one two-year unexpired term are up for election. The annual election is set for Tuesday, April 17. Schiffer and Sullivan have indicated they will seek re-election to three-year terms. Trustee Timothy Thomas, who was appointed to the board in June to fill an unexpired term, said he had not yet decided if he will run for a full term.