Eighth grade writing scores show improvement

Overall, 87 percent of Barrow eighth graders met or exceeded standards this year compared to only 74 percent in 2009.

For the state as a whole, only 79 percent of eighth grade test takers met or exceeded the standards.

The performance of Barrow students also surpassed that of their counterparts in the Northeast Georgia Regional Support Agency (RESA) counties, who combined for an 82 percent passing rate. Northeast Georgia RESA includes Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Jackson, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe and Walton Counties along with Jefferson City, Social Circle City, and Commerce City School Districts.

Last year, Barrow County Schools implemented frequent mock writing assessments, brought in outside writing consultants and reexamined the process of teaching writing within the GPS curriculum in an attempt to improve test scores.

Ron Saunders, superintendent of Barrow County Schools, said he was thrilled with the results.

“[The scores are] a direct result of the teachers, administrators, staff and students hard work in preparation and execution of the writing test. Congratulations to all,” he said.

One of the schools showing the most improvement was Russell Middle School. In 2009, only 61 percent of students met or exceeded the writing assessment standards. In 2010, 88 percent met or exceeded standards – a 27 percent increase.

“I am very proud of our teachers and students. They have worked very hard on their writing skills this year and it is encouraging to see this much improvement.” said Russ Claxton, principal of Russell Middle School.

Winder Barrow Middle School also demonstrated significant improvement with a 16 percent increase in the number of students meeting or exceeding standards.

Mary Beth Bennett, principal of Winder-Barrow Middle School said the scores were indicative of a job well done.

“Our results demonstrate the tremendous effort by teachers, parents and students,” she said.