• Secretary's Column
• Teacher Compensation Assistance Program:
  Round two approved, timeline set for 2008-09
• Get the “411” on certified teachers
• NAEP scores exceed national average,
  Other states gain ground at 4th grade
• State offers free influenza vaccine to children
• Funds assist National Board candidates with fee
• South Dakota Teacher of the Year announced,
  American Star of Teaching award winner
• Grants available for nutrition, physical activity programs
• Pages see government in action
• Hot Topic
• Upcoming Events

Secretary's Column

Changing our thinking about change

Some of my greatest inspiration comes from reading – either articles that I read or books that are designed to challenge my thinking. Recently, I had a chance to hear an author speak about his book, “Change or Die.” The author is Alan Deutschman.

Deutschman has completed some compelling research that illustrates the challenges of change. He has helped me understand that any major changes in the public school system will be difficult.

Deutschman begins his book by sharing some stories from the medical field. He reminds the reader that 80 percent of our healthcare budget is consumed by five behaviors that are all choices. You probably know the list: too much smoking, drinking, eating, stress and not enough exercise.

One of the solutions to the problems mentioned above is a heart procedure known as angioplasty. Most of us have had friends or family members that have experienced this procedure. The most disturbing part of Deutschman’s opening chapter is that he quotes a well-known medical professor who indicates that even though people are faced with a life-altering medical procedure and know that their years on this earth could be limited without a change in lifestyle, 90 percent of the patients do not change their behavior. When faced with a life or death option, most people choose to roll the dice. Change is hard, even if it could dictate a change in our quality of life.

When it comes to changing a past practice or program, it is no wonder that it may be difficult to do. We all get into patterns of behaviors that are comfortable to us and provide the structure or security that we need. However, like the medical example mentioned above, there are times that change is necessary to create a better and more productive life.

In education, we need to continue to reflect on how we prepare our students for the future. Do the habits that we have developed in our schools prepare our students for the future? Do the activities that we implement promote the skills that will be required for a 21st century adult? Do we emphasize problem solving, teamwork, writing, research and communication in our classroom and school activities?

Even if our past behavior was right for past or current students, we want the students of the future to have a more elaborate set of skills. This is not a life or death situation, but the decisions that we make with today’s students will create a better and more productive life for our students in the future.

My challenge to you, as school leaders, is this: Keep asking the important questions. Keep thinking about how we can improve our educational system. Keep your mind open to change.

The South Dakota Board of Education recently approved the TCAP applications of 57 additional school districts for the 2007-08 school year. The board previously had approved 94 applications at its July meeting. TCAP provides $4 million of state funds to enhance local teacher salaries based on district instructional goals, market compensation or a combination of both.

In addition to approving applications, the Board of Education approved the application timeline for 2008-09 (see below) and two policy changes. Districts may begin applying for 2008-09 TCAP funds on Nov. 1, 2007, with a deadline of Dec. 14, 2007. Final approvals will be made by the Board of Education on Jan. 15, 2008. Funds will cover the time period July 1, 2008-June 30, 2009.

Beginning with the applications for 2008-09, districts have the option to submit a one-, two- or three-year application. Annual amendments and adjustments to approved applications will be considered. Also, the budget section of the application will require only estimated activity budgets. This will allow districts to shift TCAP money for approved activities without the need to request amendments to their budgets.

Questions regarding the TCAP program can be directed to Wade Pogany in the Department of Education. Call (605) 773-3282 or wade.pogany@state.sd.us. 

A new resource, Teacher 411, allows school administrators and others access to pertinent information about certified South Dakota teachers. The online directory lets you look at a teacher’s current employment and assignments, endorsements, professional preparations and degrees. Eventually, it also will show their highly qualified status.

“We think administrators will find this a really handy tool, especially when interviewing candidates for open positions,” said Melody Schopp, director of the Department of Education’s Office of Accreditation and Teacher Quality.

The online directory is located at http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/teacher411. Teachers should find the site useful in checking the expiration date of their certificates. Parents and members of the public can find a quick summary of a teacher’s credentials.

“All of the information within this directory is public information. We’ve just made it easier for people to access,” Schopp said.

NAEP scores exceed national average,
Other states gain ground at 4th grade

Results of the National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the “Nation’s Report Card,” were released Sept. 25. For the third year, South Dakota students achieved scores that exceeded the national average.

“When studying student achievement, we look at three primary assessment tools: the NAEP, the ACT and the Dakota STEP,” said Education Secretary Rick Melmer. “The NAEP and ACT offer important national perspectives, while the Dakota STEP measures progress against our state content standards. This year, we’re particularly pleased with our 8th grade NAEP results since that represents a critical transition year for young people.”

The NAEP tests a random sample of 4th and 8th grade students in reading and mathematics. The test is given every two years in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Department of Defense schools. The NAEP scale ranges from 0 to 500.

Eighth grade scores among top 5 highest in country
At the 8th grade level, South Dakota’s average scale score in math was 288, compared to the national average of 280. This was up just slightly from 287 in 2005. Only four jurisdictions scored significantly higher than South Dakota in 8th grade math. Twelve jurisdictions scored about the same, and 35 had lower scores than South Dakota.

In reading, the state’s 8th grade students achieved an average scale score of 270, compared to the national average of 261. This was up slightly from 269 in 2005. Only three jurisdictions scored significantly higher than South Dakota in 8th grade reading. Eleven scored about the same, and 37 had lower scores than South Dakota.

“Our standards at this level appear to be fairly tight and more aligned with the NAEP assessment framework,” Melmer said. “Compared to their peers in other states, South Dakota’s 8th grade students seem to be in a strong position heading into high school, which can be a challenging transition.”

Fourth grade scores stable, other states improve
At the 4th grade level, South Dakota’s average scale score in math was 241, compared to the national average of 239. That was down just slightly from 242 in 2005. Thirteen jurisdictions scored significantly higher than South Dakota in 4th grade math. Sixteen jurisdictions scored approximately the same, and 22 scored below South Dakota.

In reading, the state’s 4th grade students achieved an average scale score of 223, compared to the national average of 220. This was up slightly from 222 in 2005. Eight jurisdictions scored significantly higher than South Dakota in 4th grade reading. Twenty-two scored approximately the same, and 21 scored below South Dakota.

Across the nation, scores at the 4th grade level saw significant improvement, while South Dakota’s scores remained steady. “Other states appear to be gaining ground at this level. While I’m not ready to sound any alarm bells, I do think it’s an indication that we need to pay close attention to our early learning efforts,” Melmer said. “Programs like the new Starting Strong preschool pilot in Sioux Falls can help us make sure that all students are properly prepared as they enter kindergarten.”

According to Melmer, elementary math is currently a focus of the Department of Education through South Dakota Counts, a three-year, $3 million federally funded initiative. South Dakota Counts targets math instruction at the K-5 level. “The program aims to help teachers understand how students learn math and, therefore, make them better teachers,” he said.

Poverty remains a factor
One subgroup that education leaders watch closely is the American Indian subgroup. “Our Native American students make up about 11 percent of our public school student population, making them our largest minority group,” Melmer said. This year, the NAEP scores of South Dakota’s American Indian students remained below the national average for this subgroup in all areas except 8th grade reading.

Another “gap” area that deserves attention is the difference between the scores of students eligible for the free lunch program and those not eligible for the program. Participation in the free and reduced lunch program serves as an indicator of poverty. In 2007, the gaps between these two groups in both subjects and both grade levels ranged from 15 to 22 points.

“The link between poverty and student achievement has been well documented,” Melmer said. “We need to continue to focus on strategies for assisting these students and bringing them to higher levels of achievement.”

For more information related to NAEP, visit www.nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard. 

Average Scaled Scores

Grade 4 – Math Average Scaled Scores

Grade 4 – Reading Average Scaled Scores

Grade 8 – Math Average Scaled Scores

Grade 8 – Reading Average Scaled Scores

State offers free influenza vaccine to children

The State of South Dakota will offer influenza vaccine free of charge to all South Dakota children 6 months through 18 years of age. The Departments of Health and Education are encouraging schools to support and promote flu vaccination for students.

During the 2006-07 influenza season, 70 percent of flu cases were individuals 0 to 19 years of age. Forty-three percent of flu-related hospitalizations were individuals 0 to 10 years of age. Targeting this population for vaccination will help reduce the spread of flu, decrease illness and death from the disease, and increase school attendance.

If your district has a school nurse, that nurse could become a vaccine provider and administer the flu shots for your students. If you do not have a school nurse, the community health nursing office or a local clinic may be willing to help you organize a shot clinic for your students. Schools can also help make parents aware of the free shots and encourage them to take advantage of this opportunity.

For more information about this initiative, contact the Department of Health’s Office of Community Health Services at 1-800-738-2301. Or visit http://flu.sd.gov.

Funds assist National Board candidates with fee

Teachers pursuing National Board Certification may apply for subsidies of $500 to $1,000 while funds last. The subsidies help to cover the NBC application fee.

The U.S. Department of Education’s Candidate Subsidy Program helps financially offset a portion of the application fee for teachers who are pursuing National Board Certification. Subsidies will be awarded to eligible NBC candidates while funds last. Funds are provided by the U.S. Congress and allocated to states.

An application may be downloaded from the South Dakota Department of Education’s Web site at http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/NationalBoard/index.asp.  Click on “Subsidy Application” under “Forms.” Completed applications must be postmarked by Oct. 31, 2007.

Further details are included on the application. Questions regarding this process can be directed to Lanette Johnston, South Dakota Department of Education, at (605) 773-8415 or lanette.johnston@state.sd.us. 
 

Teacher of the Year, American Star of Teaching winners announced

Two South Dakota teachers recently received high honors. Dr. Sharon Andrews, a 5th grade teacher at Challenge Center in Sioux Falls, was named the 2008 South Dakota Teacher of the Year. Mike Olson, who teaches in the Bennett County School District, received the American Star of Teaching Award from the U.S. Department of Education.

Andrews has been teaching at Challenge Center, a school that serves high ability students, for seven years. Prior to that, she taught at a math and science magnet school in Little Rock, Ark.

As the South Dakota Teacher of the Year, Andrews will represent the state at the national competition. She also will receive the use of a car for one year from Billion Automotive in Sioux Falls, a $14,000 technology package from the SMARTer Kids Foundation, a $3,000 cash award from the South Dakota Community Foundation, a $3,000 cash award from Citibank, a $1,000 honorarium from the South Dakota Board of Regents, and a gift card from the South Dakota Retailers Association.

Education Secretary Rick Melmer announced Andrews as the 2008 Teacher of the Year at Governor Rounds’ Teacher Leadership Conference, Sept. 16, in Pierre.

Mike Olson has been an educator for 34 years. He teaches math and computer science and embraces the use of technology in the classroom. The U.S. Department of Education’s American Stars of Teaching project recognizes exemplary teachers who raise student achievement, use innovative classroom strategies and make a difference in their students’ lives.

Tracy Mulvenon, a representative from USDOE made the announcement at Bennett County High School in mid-September.
 

Grants available for nutrition, physical activity programs

Grants are now available to support activities that encourage healthy lifestyles for youth through physical activity and nutrition. Funds will be used to support activities to improve policy and environment. Applications will be accepted from all public, private and Bureau of Indian Education K-12 schools as well as out-of-school programs. All funded projects must focus on children and youth. The deadline to apply is Oct. 31, 2007.

For more information, go to www.healthysd.gov under the “Schools” tab.

The grant is made available by the South Dakota Department of Health in collaboration with Coordinated School Health in the Departments of Education and Health.

Pages see government in action

High school seniors can experience the legislative process firsthand by participating in the Legislative Page Program. Applications for the 2008 legislative session are being accepted through Nov. 5. School leaders are invited to share this information with seniors and their parents.

Students chosen to participate in the program spend two weeks working at the State Capitol in Pierre. Pages attend committee meetings and assist legislative staff with daily duties such as answering phones and distributing legislative documents. They also end their days on the floor of the full House or Senate. Throughout the experience, the students gain valuable exposure to the legislative process.

Pages are reimbursed for living expenses at a daily rate established by the Legislature. These funds cover housing, meals and other living expenses.

Any senior interested in serving as a page must be sponsored by a South Dakota legislator or legislator-elect. Students also must have the permission of a parent or guardian and their high school principal or superintendent.

For information and an online application, visit http://legis.state.sd.us/page/index.htm. Questions can be directed to Teri Retrum at Legislative Research Council, (605) 773-4288.

NCLB reauthorization:
National discussion continues

With the No Child Left Behind Act up for reauthorization, lawmakers in Washington, D.C., continue to debate the merits of the landmark legislation. One plan that has gained attention recently is a draft issued by Rep. George Miller and Rep. Howard “Buck” McKeon. Both of the California representatives are members of the House Education and Labor Committee.

On Aug. 27, the “Miller-McKeon NCLB Discussion Draft” was issued. This draft includes many items that have been the focus of discussions nationwide: using growth models to calculate adequate yearly progress, allowing for multiple measures for schools to reach progress goals, and differentiating among schools in improvement (those that miss AYP in just a few subgroups versus those that miss AYP in multiple subgroups).

The draft also contains sections related to English language learners and students with disabilities. These two areas often are cited by school leaders as areas of concern with the law. In the ELL section of the draft document, verbiage calls for authorizing states to use alternate valid and reliable assessment measures, including portfolios, to assess proficiency of ELL students. In the section relating to students with disabilities, the verbiage would allow special education students to remain in that subgroup for accountability purposes for three years after they exit those programs.

A comprehensive and detailed document, the draft contains a host of other provisions – among them a controversial teacher salary comparability item.

To read the complete “Miller-McKeon NCLB Discussion Draft” or a summary of it, visit the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and Labor’s homepage.

Earlier this year, the Council of Chief State School Officers, a nonprofit, leadership and advocacy organization for state education leaders, issued its own list of eight policy recommendations to address the challenges of NCLB. Click here for CCSSO’s recommendations for reauthorizing No Child Left Behind.

Upcoming Events

For a more complete list of professional development opportunities, visit www.southdakotapd.com.

• Aligning health, reading with a HEAP of books
• Get online:
  Health Education Standards and Assessment Training
• Systems Change Conference targets school leaders
• LifeSkills Curriculum Training set for November

Aligning health, reading with a HEAP of Books
Teachers know how important health education is for students, but it’s no secret that there just isn’t enough time to get it all done. The “Aligning Health and Reading with a HEAP of Books” training is a practical solution for elementary and secondary teachers, school counselors, nurses and others.

Set for Oct. 25-26 in Mitchell, Aligning Health and Reading with a HEAP of Books is designed to help teachers make connections between the health knowledge and skills their students should achieve in order to become health literate and the books they integrate into their daily lessons on reading and writing.

The training will be held at the Comfort Inn, 2020 Highland Way, Mitchell, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants will be eligible to receive one graduate credit through Black Hills State University for $40 and one Department of Education Teacher Renewal Credit at no charge. Participants may also take the course for no credit.

For more information and to register for this training opportunity, go to http://doe.sd.gov/oess/schoolhealth/training/index.asp.

Get online:
Health Education Standards and Assessment Training
Coordinated School Health will offer an online training related to South Dakota’s health education standards and assessment. The training will be held over a four-week period beginning Nov. 1 and ending Nov. 30.

The South Dakota Health Education Standards and Assessment Training is designed to provide participants with information and skill-building opportunities related to South Dakota’s health education standards and assessment of those standards.

Participants will explore the core concepts and skill categories of the health education standards. They will learn to align standards, assessment and instructional activities as well as obtain practice in scoring student’s work. Participants will learn to differentiate between assessment for the purpose of accountability and assessment for the purpose of instructional improvement.

This training is appropriate for elementary teachers, curriculum directors, health education teachers, administrators, school counselors, school nurses, parents, and other interested individuals.

Approval has been granted for one hour of graduate or undergraduate credit or for one Department of Education certificate renewal credit. The course also may be taken for no credit.

For more information about course objectives or to register, go to http://doe.sd.gov/oess/schoolhealth/training/index.asp.  Or contact Karen Keyser, Coordinated School Health, at (605) 773-6808 or karen.keyser@state.sd.us. 

Systems Change Conference targets school leaders
The 2007 Systems Change Conference will take place Nov. 14-16 at Cedar Shore Resort in Chamberlain. It is designed to be a powerful and practical professional development experience for education leaders. This year’s agenda features keynote speakers Neil Howe, best-selling author and an authority on generations in America; Dr. Rick Melmer, secretary of the South Dakota Department of Education; and Gary Marx, president of the Center for Public Outreach.

The event is hosted by the Midwest Alliance for Professional Learning and Leadership and a host of partners, including the Department of Education. For more information, visit www.systemschange.midwestmaple.org. 

LifeSkills Curriculum Training set for November
The South Dakota Departments of Education and Health, Department of Human Services and Regional Prevention Resource Centers will host a LifeSkills Curriculum Training Nov. 28-29 at the Holiday Inn City Centre in Sioux Falls.

Lifeskills Curriculum Training is a proven, highly effective substance abuse prevention program. The training is recommended for teachers, counselors, prevention advocates, safe and drug free school coordinators, and school nurses. It is designed to:

• provide students with the necessary skills to resist social pressures to smoke, drink, and use drugs;
• help students develop greater self-esteem, self-mastery, and self-confidence;
• enable students to effectively cope with social anxiety;
• increase students’ knowledge of the immediate consequences of substance abuse.

Approval has been granted for one hour of graduate or undergraduate credit or for one Department of Education certificate renewal credit. The course also may be taken for no credit.

For more information about the course objectives or to register, go to http://doe.sd.gov/oess/schoolhealth/training/index.asp.  Or contact the Coordinated School Health staff at (605) 773-3261.