District 214 Reaches Academic Goals, Despite Changes

Steve Cordogan, director of research and evaluation for , said students are achieving on Advance Placement courses and ACT scores, with failing grades on the decline. 

Cordogan presented instructional goals for the district to the school board Tuesday night, showcasing that the district is going into the right direction. 

Between the 2006-2007 and the 2011-2012 school year, district wide AP course completions have increased by 87.6 percent, Cordogan said. 

Since 2001, the at-risk population of students have increased, however, the change hasn't negatively affected district statistics, as these groups are showing growth on EXPLORE test scores, Cordogan said. 

"The EXPLORE program is designed to help eighth and ninth graders explore a broad range of options for their future," the act.org website states. "It prepares students not only for their high school coursework but for their post–high school choices as well." 

"You need to do well with every child no matter what they look like," said Superintendent David Schuler.

Class of 2012 ACT scores did drop by .1 point lower than the record-setting class of 2011, but still improved by 1.4 points since universal testing begun. 

"The data helps us structure how we do things and what types of interventions are needed," Schuler said.

The superintendent said he's proud of the teachers and staff of their continued dedication and work.