Schools
ACLC Shines in Common Core Test Results
New State assessments confirm continued academic success at Alameda Community Learning Center
Everyone gets anxious about test results, especially when they’re based on a brand new format. Schools throughout California felt that heat last week as the state announced test results based on new state standards, known as the Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBA).
Though the Alameda Community Learning Center (ACLC) has a history of scoring highly on state tests, the SBAs represent a completely revamped playing field. These assessments are based on the new Common Core curriculum, designed to promote critical thinking, analytical writing and problem-solving skills to help ensure that students graduate with the skills needed for future success.
“ACLC did very well in the initial round of SBA testing,” said Lead Facilitator (Principal), David Hoopes. “We’ve always known that our more holistic, project-based model results in deeper learning, and these assessments reflect that,” Hoopes said.
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ACLC’s high school test results in English Language Arts topped both Alameda and Encinal high schools by 15 points or more, with 88% of learners meeting or exceeding state standards for proficiency in English. ACLC also exceeded both high schools in math, with 57% meeting or exceeding state proficiency standards.
In middle school test results, ACLC was neck-and-neck with Lincoln Middle School, AUSD’s top performer. The two schools tied in math, with 69% meeting or exceeding state standards, and ACLC was just four points behind in English Language Arts, with 74% meeting or exceeding state standards.
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“Our instructional staff’s early transition to Common Core alignment is a major factor in this achievement,” said Hoopes. “Despite the upset of having to move our school two years in a row, our facilitators (teachers) never faltered in delivering great educational outcomes,” Hoopes said.
ACLC is a tuition-free public charter middle and high school, located at 1900 Third Street, Alameda, CA. ACLC is an educational community that emphasizes a progressive, project-based learning approach and is founded on a democratic model that empowers learners.
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