How Should Newton Improve its MCAS Scores?

The 2011 scores for the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) were released last week, with some good and not-so-good news coming out of Newton's numbers. 

in areas including both English Language Arts (ELA) and math scores in high school subgroups, or individual student populations. In general, the school's scores soar above the state averages.

However, middle school scores in math seemed to falter a bit, with grades 6-8 not making adequate yearly progress (AYP). In addition, the district did not improve from its "improvement status" when it comes to math scores in the subgroups.

At , for example, subgroups did not meet AYP in both math and ELA, and the general school population (or the aggregate) did not reach AYP in math. Bigelow is currently listed as being in a "restructuring" year for its subgroup math scores. 

At Monday night's school committee meeting, in grade point average and MCAS scores, including tutoring, after-school programs and intervention. 

So, what do you think Newton needs to do to improve MCAS scores? Should the district do anything at all? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.