VALDOSTA — Test scores have improved at the Scintilla Charter Academy 

According to Georgia Milestones Scores, there was an 87 percent increase in English language arts and 201 percent increase in mathematics for third-grade students scoring proficient and above in 2017 in comparison to 2016 at the charter school. 

With a 72 percent increase in English language arts and 42 percent increase in mathematics, fourth-grade students also saw an increase in proficient and above scores from 2016 to 2017. 

Scintilla Board of Education members reviewed the improved score during the Aug. 29 meeting.

Jennifer Denham, director of communications and engagement for Scintilla, connected the rise in scores with the new Expeditionary Learning Education reform model. 

“Although our teachers had the daunting task of implementing these new and innovative approaches, we were thrilled to see that in just one school year, the scores reflected that the model is working to increase student achievement,” Denham said of EL Education. 

The Fiscal Year 2018 grant award notifications for Title I at $108,402, Title II at $13,601, Title IV at $10,000 and $70,939 were presented for board approval. 

Mandy Avera, assistant principal, said SCA applied to a Georgia implementation grant available to charter schools for more than $700,000, which includes programming, supplies, technology and teaching resources. The money would have to be spent within one year. 

The enrollment update reported 502 students enrolled and a waiting list of 85 students. 

Scintilla is a K-5 school located at 2171 E. Park Ave. For more information, visit scintillacharteracademy.com. 

Kimberly Cannon is a Reporter with The Valdosta Daily Times. Her extension is 1376.