The AJC reported this morning on the release of the new statewide report card for schools.  As the article summarizes early on…

Georgia’s new report card for schools is out this morning and the grade for most metro Atlanta school systems is above average, with the City of Decatur and Gwinnett County leading the bunch.

The another AJC page explains that “Schools and districts are graded on a 100 point-scale on the index and can receive up to 10 bonus points for a total possible score of 110.”

• The score is primarily (70%) based on “Achievement Points” from that come from CRCT and end of course grades, measures of when students are ready for the next level and graduation rates.  
• 15% of the score is based on “Progress points” from academic growth on state tests.  
• 15% is based on Achievement gap points – “can either receive points for closing or having small achievement gaps on state tests or for year-over-year gap change”.
• 10% is based on Challenge Points which is explained by the AJC as “schools can receive if they have a significant number of economically disadvantaged students, English learners and students with disabilities meeting expectations or if they exceed the CCRPI state targets in college-ready programs”

Overall, Decatur was one of the top performing districts in the metro Atlanta area, with Oakhurst Elementary ranking #4 among all Elementary schools in the state with a score of 101.7.  Clairemont was close behind with a score of 101.1.   Winnona Park received a score of 97.1 and Glennwood came in with a 93.1.

According to this “Best/Worst” page, Decatur’s high schools and middle schools also performed at the top compared to other metro school districts.

There’s a lot of data out on the AJC website, so check it out.  Dig into the database itself here and let us know what else you find!

What are the go-to treats that satisfy your sweet tooth?

Fun fact: Did you know that the term “sweet tooth” has been around since the mid-13th century?

Winnona Park Elementary Principal Greg Wiseman recently braved the ripples and lily pads of the elementary school pond for this gripping photo op.

Thanks to Ilene and Chris for the great pic!