Improving Student Outcomes

A dire situation is presenting itself in Portland Public Schools. This will have a negative impact not only for students but Portland’s economic and social growth for decades.

It’s why Improving Student Outcomes is my priority for the Portland Public Schools.

My concern stems not only from my conversations with parents and voters but also from a special report by The National Association for Educational Progress. 

The recent 2022 report notes, “Average scores for age 9 students in 2022 declined 5 points in reading and 7 points in mathematics compared to 2020. This is the largest average score decline in reading since 1990, and the first ever score decline in mathematics. You can read the report here.

Clearly the lack of in-person interactions - largely due to Covid distance learning - affected the average scores. This underscores the power of the relationship between the teacher and the student. I include educational technicians and support staff among teachers.  

Furthermore, student outcomes encompass more than reading, writing and arithmetic. It is critical that students learn and utilize complex thinking skills to succeed in today's world.

In my experience student outcomes improve when students and teachers trust each other. You build this trust by sharing goals, values and enthusiasm within the context of a sound curriculum. 

Connection to a caring adult at school improves the social and emotional strengths in students. This connection opens the doors to the wealth of academic and social knowledge available within the halls of Portland Public Schools. This bond will improve student outcomes and we need to do everything in our power to encourage these connections.

Presently, student outcomes are measured by the scores on standardized tests, high school graduation levels and the number of students who go on to higher education. Teaching to the test, inflating grades and promoting students without the necessary skills distorts the data. It’s clear the measurement data doesn't get at the heart of how a school impacts student outcomes.

Yes, let’s measure facts and results. But, research and my experience tell me that student outcomes are improved by teachers' positive relationships with students. Which leads me to write a future blog - “See that Teachers are Supported to Achieve Their Goals. ” Look for it in the coming weeks. 

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