North Judson-San Pierre Superintendent Discusses Takeaways from I-Learn

Posted on September 26, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI

North Judson-San Pierre school officials recently discussed the results of the I-Learn test.

Back in August, Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin addressed the test before the embargo on the results was lifted, noting that IDOE officials alerted schools to expect generally low scores.

At that time, she emphasized the fact that this was the first year for the assessment and it will take time for students and teachers to adjust to the new test.

During the NJ-SP School Board’s meeting last Tuesday, Zupin indicated that while there has been understandable criticism about the test, it’s still important to analyze the results and learn from them. She provided members with some valuable takeaways.

She mentioned that there was some good news when it came to the math scores, noting that the students tested in grades three through eight had scores that were near or above the state average.

She explained, “If you recall, 2-5 years ago, we struggled in math. I think the focus on math has helped. We did get a K-8 math series 2 years ago. We think that common language has helped but our math scores are pretty darn respectable.”

She added that on the flip side, there was room for improvement when it came to English/Language Arts and Reading. She mentioned that plans are in the works to bring in a multi-grade reading series to help address the need for improvement.

Zupin stated, “That K-8 continuity and common language, we believe will be helpful.”

While NJ-SP is taking steps to constructively address these scores, there has been widespread criticism of this year’s I-Learn results.

President Derrick Stalbaum highlighted the fact there was one school that reportedly had a passing rate of only 3 percent. He stated he felt that was more of a reflection on the test itself rather than the students taking it. 

As a result of relatively low scores across the board, Governor Eric Holcomb issued a call to hold schools harmless and the Indiana State Board of Education approved a resolution that there will be no action to place school letter grades until the General Assembly explores how to ease the transition to I-Learn.