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The results of the 2012 Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) were recently released, showing a marked improvement for the local school systems over the previous year.
The tests are given annually to 3rd through 8th graders, and the scores are used as a benchmark to ensure that all students in the state are performing at similar levels.
Although the CRCT has met with criticism over the years, as naysayers claim it forces schools to ‘teach the test’ rather than teaching students on a more individualized basis, it is the standard Georgia uses.
School systems have no choice but to adhere to those standards, as funding and other incentives are tied to it.
Over the years, both Valdosta and Lowndes school systems have had their challenges with the CRCT, but overall, both systems have fared well and the latest scores show that whatever measures they are taking to ensure student success, it’s working. With scores higher in most subject areas than last year for both public systems, students are apparently learning and achieving at higher levels than ever before.
The students of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and education is the key that will enable them to achieve their goals.
Both Valdosta and Lowndes systems are to be commended for the work they’ve done to improve CRCT scores and have demonstrated that students are getting an excellent education locally, regardless of which system they attend.
What We Think
Making the grade
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THUMBS UP: To all South Georgia graduates. Congratulations on your success in completing school and best wishes on your continued success in the future.
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New era at the Boys and Girls Club
Next week on June 1, it will be the official end of an era at the Boys and Girls Club of Valdosta when Robert Soper hands over responsibility for the organization to the new Chief Professional Officer Jim Wink.
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Thank you, EMS
We always pull over for them, but we rarely seem to thank them.
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Tornado: An aftermath of help
Seeing the massive path of destruction left in the wake of tornadoes in Oklahoma Monday was a sobering reminder of the power of spring storms.
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Thoughts on graduation
Graduation ceremonies reflect how life marches on. For the students receiving their diplomas and degrees, graduation is a culmination of the majority of their lives’ work.
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THUMBS UP: To Dr. John Gaston, retiring dean of Valdosta State University’s College of the Arts. For the past 10-plus years, Gaston has worked to build a more interconnected program with various artistic and communications departments working together. Given that you are likely to see one College of the Arts department collaborating with another during events is proof of Gaston’s success.
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On the go this weekend
Take a breath.
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Sharing the roads with motorcycles
With the recent pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, the number of motorcycles on area roads has increased.
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Thank your local law enforcement today
Today, May 15, was designated Peace Officers Memorial Day back in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy was in office.
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Visit musical roots this weekend
Beginning Saturday, May 18, Nashville, Ga., will be hosting a special Smithsonian exhibit, “New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music.” The exhibit will continue through the end of June and Nashville has done a tremendous job in promoting and planning for the exhibit.
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