The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) released scores today for all students tested last October in grades 3-8 and 11 using the New England Common Assessment Program (NECAP).

Blackstone Valley Prep (BVP) Mayoral Academy data shows significant growth for 6^th grade scholars after only one (1) year at the school. Teaching year data, which RIDE uses to evaluate the performance of all public schools, including charter schools, revealed that 86% of BVP 6^th graders scored proficient or better in English Language Arts and 89% of 6^th graders scored proficient or better in math.

Jeremy Chiappetta, Executive Director, celebrated the great work of teachers and scholars by sharing, “Blackstone Valley Prep scholars’ proficiency rates were up 25% points in English Language Arts and up 41% points in math after only one (1) year at Blackstone Valley Prep.  With hard work, great teachers and more time, all kids can achieve at high levels.  While we have a long way to go, we are even more resolute to roll up our sleeves and do the hard work required to put all scholars on their path to college.”

BVP’s results were recognized by Rhode Island Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, Deborah A. Gist.  “Nothing has a greater effect on student achievement than the quality of the classroom teacher, and the results we see today in Blackstone Valley Prep show how important it is to hire excellent teachers and give them the resources they need to succeed,” said Commissioner Gist.  “The team at Blackstone Valley Prep shares an unwavering commitment to ensuring that students and teachers have the necessary support, which has helped move students at the school to high levels of achievement. I congratulate the students and the educators at Blackstone Valley Prep for leading the way toward greatness.”

The chart below further illustrates the significant growth achieved by BVP scholars.

Also worth noting are BVP scores as compared to the state averages.  BVP compares favorably in math (totaling 89% for BVP compared to 63% for the state average) and in reading (totaling 86% for BVP compared to 73% for the state average) to the state.  BVP also compares favorably with regard to the percentages of scholars scoring “proficient with distinction” as noted in the following graph.

Blackstone Valley Prep Middle Head of School and 2002 Teach For America alum, Kate Crowe, shared, “This data is a testament to the power of smart, dedicated teachers who nurture the development of all children while also relentlessly pursuing the highest expectations.”

Teach For America is an important partner with BVP faculty.   Teach For America corps members and alumni are working at all levels of leadership within the organization.  “Blackstone Valley Prep is fulfilling their commitment to provide their students with the excellent education that will put them on a path to success in school and in life,” said Heather Tow-Yick, Executive Director of Teach For America in Rhode Island. “At Teach For America, we’re proud to provide one source of effective teaching and leadership talent for the school as part of Blackstone Valley Prep’s strategy to build a supportive and successful school community.”

Read an overview of the impact of one year of study at BVP

About the data:Some of the scores released today by RIDE show a blended average of “testing year” data—data which includes scholars who just began at BVP in August as well as scholars who also attended the previous year (2010-2011).  RIDE also publishes Teaching Year data which is what is referenced in this release and which RIDE uses for accountability purposes.  Please check out www.blackstonevalleyprep.org for more information about our program and additional data charts.