4 Norwalk Schools Named As Schools Of Distinction

NORWALK, CT — In a report detailing the overall success of all school districts in the state, Norwalk Public Schools achieved an accountability index score of 76.8 percent, once again ranking first in its district reference comparison group. (DRG.) According to a press release, the district also surpassed the statewide index of 74.9 percent, and four Norwalk schools were recognized as Schools of Distinction by the Connecticut State Department of Education.

The Connecticut Next Generation Accountability Report is made up of a broad set of 12 indicators that help tell the story of how well a school is preparing its students for success in college, careers and life. The system is intended to move beyond test scores and graduation rates, providing an overall perspective of district and school performance, and incorporating student growth over time.

"We’re continuing to see tangible results from the investment that Norwalk is making in its schools," Norwalk Public Schools Superintendent Steven Adamowski said in a release. "It’s gratifying to see the hard work of our teachers, staff and students reflected and recognized in these results. While there is always more work to be done, the progress we are seeing under the Board of Education’s Strategic Operating Plan has Norwalk achieving its goal of becoming the most successful city school system in Connecticut."

Kendall, Jefferson, Rowayton and Tracey Elementary schools have been recognized this year as Schools of Distinction. Schools of Distinction are recognized by the CSDE for high overall performance, high academic growth and/or improvement in overall performance.

• Tracey Elementary was recognized for high performance and high growth for English Language Arts (ELA) and Math for all students, and for high growth in ELA and Math for high needs students.
• Kendall Elementary was recognized for high growth in ELA for high needs students.
• Jefferson Elementary recognized for high growth in ELA for high needs students.
• Rowayton Elementary was recognized for high growth for ELA and math for all students and for high needs students.

The report named Tracey Elementary and the Center for Global Studies to Category 1, the top category. 2017-18 accountability index scores also resulted in several schools moving up to Category 2, including Brookside, Columbus Magnet, Fox Run, Kendall, Naramake and Tracey.

Brien McMahon High School, named as a Category 4 Focus School last year, advanced into Category 2 for 2017-18. West Rocks Middle School, also a Focus School last year, rose one category. Norwalk had no schools in Category 4, the lowest category, for 2017-18.

A full presentation on all 12 indicators of the report will be made at the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, March 5 at 7 p.m. at Norwalk City Hall.

Contributed press release.