In the annual National Center for Educational Accountability study published by Texas Monthly, Bonham and Western Hills students were shown to be high performing in 25 percent of the subjects on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills exam. The study is different from the Texas Education Agency accountability rating because the schools are put into groups with similar economic and ethnic demographics for an “apples-to-apples” comparison.
From there, the study considers performance over several years, noting if students improve or decline over time and if students coming into the school succeed.
Western Hills was recognized for having 25 percent of its students earn a high performance rating on the 2007 TAKS test. Bonham had 25 percent of its students perform at a high level in reading.
Pat Groholski, Western Hills principal, credits the school’s success with high standards, a good curriculum that aligns each grade with the next, teacher mentoring and parent involvement.
“We look at kids when they come in and set high expectations for them no matter what,” Ms. Groholski said. “Everybody here believes all children will succeed and they feel responsible (for their success).”
This is the second year in a row that Bonham Middle School made the list. Bonham has been recognized for climbing from a low performing school to one of the best schools in the state. It has even been held up as a case study for other schools to follow.
Dr. Dana Marable, Temple ISD superintendent, was happy for the schools’ success.
“I am always pleased when our schools are recognized for the outstanding jobs they are doing with our students,” Dr. Marable said. “Both of these schools have great programs, great teachers and great campus leadership. I look forward to celebrating many more successes with them.”
Several other area districts had schools on the list.
In Killeen: Cedar Valley Elementary, Clifton Park Elementary, Harker Heights Elementary, Montague Village Elementary, Nolanville Elementary, Reeces Creek Elementary, Audie Murphy Middle School, Smith Middle School and Ellison High School.
Rogers Middle School in Rogers and Academy Junior High in Academy also made the list.
kchandler@temple-telegram.com
