H.O. Brittingham recognized for improved test results
H.O. Brittingham Principal Ned Gladfelter is thrilled his school finally earned state recognition.
Based on increased academic performance in reading and math on the state test in spring 2017, H.O. Brittingham was named a Recognition School by state officials.
“With this Recognition School award, we hope to continue building upon our success and promote a deeper understanding of leadership within our school community among students, staff, and families,” Gladfelter said.
H.O. Brittingham Elementary was one of 13 schools honored.
In 2017, Gladfelter said HOB students started using a Leader in Me philosophy that encourages them to take ownership of their learning. Students work with teachers to set up binders that include learning goals and a record of student progress. Gladfelter said students are using technology to personalize their learning, and collaboration among students and teachers has improved through Schoology, a learning platform that allows online interaction.
Students are required to read at least 60 minutes a day through an American Reading Company program, and teachers work with students to set individual goals, he said.
In 2013, fewer than 60 percent of students met the standard for math and reading testing.
When the state test was changed, the number of students proficient dropped to about 40 percent.
By 2017, the percentages have improved to about half the students meeting proficiency in math and reading.
The school also plans to increase the amount of hands-on opportunities for students to create and problem-solve, Gladfelter said. When the new school opens in fall 2018, he said, they plan to extend what they are learning in computer and math classes using technology in a maker-space area that will be part of the new school which will open in the Fall of 2018.
Superintendent Robert Fulton said HOB's hard work is paying off.
“We are extremely proud of HOB for receiving this recognition from the state. This is a much-deserved award for the staff, students and families,” he said.
Two Kent County schools, Allen Frear Elementary in the Caesar Rodney School District and South Dover Elementary in the Capital School District, earned National Distinguished Title I School recognition. They each earn $8,000 with the award, said Alison May, spokeswoman for the Delaware Department of Education.
“I congratulate the students, educators and families whose hard work and support led to these achievements,” said Secretary of Education Susan Bunting. “These school communities have provided educational programs and created school cultures that allow students to thrive.”
