Development News for Orland Park, Illinois

District Details Enrichment Programs for High-Achieving Students

The district outlined its enrichment programs offered across primary, intermediate, and junior high levels. These programs are designed for students demonstrating high academic achievement, utilizing multiple measures for qualification, including standardized test scores (IR, MAP, CogAT), grades, and teacher recommendations. At the junior high, honors math, ELA, science, and social studies are available for students performing at or above the 90th percentile. Intermediate students can access self-contained enrichment programs (typically at or above the 95th percentile) at High Point, as well as high math and enrichment reading at all three buildings. Primary students receive ELA and math pull-out programs for those performing at the 98th and 99th percentiles. The district emphasizes a comprehensive approach to identifying students for enrichment, including considerations beyond standardized test scores, to ensure inclusivity.

Spring MAP Assessment Results Show Strong Student Growth Across All Levels

The Board Advisory Committee for Teaching, Learning, and Technology reviewed the Spring MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) assessment results. Data for primary, intermediate, and junior high levels showed significant growth in both reading and math achievement percentiles from fall to spring. Overall, district performance in meeting growth targets was considered excellent, exceeding the district's benchmark of 60% or more students meeting their growth target. Some areas, particularly at the junior high level, noted high starting achievement percentiles, with notable gains in eighth-grade math. Feedback from interventionists indicated potential testing fatigue due to a condensed testing schedule, which the district plans to address for the upcoming year by adjusting the testing windows.

District Enhances Tech Support with On-Campus Level 2 Technicians

The district is implementing a strategy to enhance building technology support by replacing retired positions with Level 2 district off-level tech support based at school campuses. This initiative began at Liberty School and is planned for Century School following a retirement. This change has increased the capacity to handle Help Desk tickets escalated from buildings, addressing a 50% increase over four years. The Level 2 tech support can assist with media center technology, project management for advanced equipment (robotics, 3D printers), building infrastructure (access control, AV systems), and handles 12-month responsibilities, including crucial summer upgrades.

Junior High Social Studies to Pilot Savvas and TCI Curriculum Programs

The junior high social studies department will pilot two new curriculum programs, Savvas and TCI, during the upcoming school year. This decision stems from feedback from junior high social studies teachers who expressed a desire to move away from the current digital-only resource, which was implemented during COVID-19. The pilot program will involve all social studies teachers at the junior high, allowing them to gain comprehensive understanding of the programs through dedicated collaboration time. A decision on which program to adopt will be made in February, with a board vote scheduled for March.