Benton High School SACS Accreditation Self-Study Report

Benton High School went through the Southern Association of College and Schools Accreditations (SACS) during the 2004-2005 school year.  At the completion of the process the school was observed by the SACS Peer Review Team which gave full accredidation Benton High School.  The following report was created and complied by Benton High Teachers, Administrators, and Staff for the accreditation process.  NOTE: This is not the complete report (all graphs/charts are not included) - if you would like to view the complete report you can download  in the following .pdf file.  Also, a complete list of Louisiana accrediated school can be found here(.pdf) .

Priorities for Improving Student Learning Print
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Priorities for Improving Student Learning
Communication with Parents
Problem Solving Skills
Page 3 of 3

 

Problem-Solving skill, as defined by the Louisiana Content Standards Foundation, is “the identification of an obstacle or challenge and the application of knowledge and thinking processes—which include reasoning, decision-making, and inquiry—in order to reach a solution using multiple pathways, even when no routine path is apparent.” It is the goal of Benton High School to develop and implement programs which will enhance students’ problem-solving skills, especially in the area of mathematics.

 

Data:

  • The GEE scores in math declined from Spring, 2003 to Spring, 2004, with a significantly higher percentage of students receiving an “Unsatisfactory” ranking in Spring, 2004 (21.2%) than in the previous year (13.8%).
  • Iowa Test Scores continue to decline, especially in the area of mathematics.
  • ACT scores in math increased each year (2003-2004); however, the school scores remain well below the national average.
  • The NSSE School Beliefs Inventory Survey documented that faculty members ranked the statement “Students need to not only demonstrate their understanding of essential knowledge and skills, but also need to be actively involved in solving problems and producing quality work” as one of their highest held beliefs.

 

Priority:
Benton High School must develop and implement programs to support understanding and use of problem-solving skills, especially in the area of mathematics.

 

Rationale:

  • Problem-solving skills, especially in the area of mathematics, are necessary for success in all subjects and on all sections of standardized tests.
  • Mathematics is a discipline in which a logical, focused approach to problem solving is taught and practiced.
  • Mathematical problem-solving skills are an essential portion of many scientific concept studies.
  • Critical thinking and problem solving involve higher-order thinking skills and provide students with the tools necessary for success in a rapidly changing world.
  • Acquiring problem-solving skills for the workplace and for personal development is of extreme importance at Benton High School. 

 

Means of Evaluating Achievement of Goal: 

 

  • Evaluate formal assessment data (GEE 21, ACT, IOWA) on an annual basis.
  • Continuously monitor documentation in lesson plans on file.

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