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LITTLETON ACADEMY ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT TO THE GOVERNING BOARD

April 20, 2021

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�COMMITTEE MEMBERS�

  • Gwen Black – Governing Board Liaison
  • Monika Colmenter – Governing Board Liaison
  • Stephanie DenBraber - Middle School Representative
  • Peter Jonnard – Chairperson
  • Barbara Lindstrom – Community member and Secretary
  • Kathryn McEntire– Principal
  • Jen Reiks – LASA Representative
  • Candy Riegel – Vice-Chairperson
  • Christy Schaack - Parent
  • Stephanie Weeber - Elementary School Representative
  • Anne Woodard – District Accountability Committee Liaison

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SURVEY DATA ANALYSIS APPROACH

  • Student survey
    • 3 choices were Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, and Disagree
  • Staff survey
    • 6 choices were Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A
  • Parent survey
    • 6 choices were Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A
    • Resurvey threshold was defined as less than 80% of respondents who selected Strongly Agree and Agree surveys
    • LAAC sent a follow-up survey to all parents for any question falling below 80% and solicited comments
  • All surveys – new in 2020-2021 every question required a response

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STUDENT SURVEY

  • Almost identical to 2019-2020 (added Spanish to Q2 and Q3)
  • Administered between Feb 26 and March 7
  • Question responses were Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree and Disagree
  • Grades 3-5
    • 149 surveys completed
    • Average time to complete 9 minutes
  • Grades 6-8 (includes 4 questions specific to middle school)
    • 126 surveys completed
    • Average time to complete 7 minutes

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: ACADEMIC STANDARDS

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Student Questions 1-2

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q1. I understand what is expected of me in Math, Language Arts/English, Science, and Social Studies

90%

0%

89%

1%

92%

2%

95%

2%

Q2. I am learning in:

Math

86%

6%

86%

5%

88%

4%

82%

9%

Language Arts/English

79%

8%

74%

9%

73%

9%

96%

2%

Science

79%

5%

77%

6%

93%

1%

59%

16%

Social Studies

86%

2%

84%

3%

94%

0%

96%

1%

Spanish

61%

15%

88%

1%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: CURRICULUM

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Student Question 3

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q3. I feel challenged in:

Math

55%

21%

54%

23%

67%

14%

67%

11%

Language Arts/English

47%

30%

36%

33%

43%

27%

68%

14%

Science

46%

29%

38%

27%

72%

11%

30%

29%

Social Studies

51%

25%

43%

25%

64%

14%

66%

18%

Spanish

64%

17%

61%

20%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: CURRICULUM

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Student Question 4

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q4. I feel challenged in:

Art

32%

43%

24%

44%

Music

33%

37%

32%

39%

Library

24%

43%

P.E.

33%

42%

34%

33%

Technology

30%

40%

Q4. I feel challenged in Art, Music, Library, P.E., Technology (asked in 2019-2020)

32%

37%

23%

40%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS

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Student Questions 5/7 and 6/8

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q5. I am satisfied with MS electives

46%

24%

68%

6%

Q6. I am satisfied with MS Extra-curricular activities

56%

9%

62%

8%

Q5/Q7. Teachers encourage me to perform better

72%

10%

63%

9%

73%

3%

75%

3%

Q6/Q8. Number of minutes spent on homework per night:

None

3%

0%

2%

3%

0-30

52%

42%

25%

29%

31-60

28%

33%

38%

37%

61-90

9%

13%

17%

14%

91-120 or more (91-120/>120)

8%

9%/3%

18%

9%/8%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS (CONTINUED)

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Student Questions 7/9, 8/10, 9/11 and 10/12

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q7/Q9. Ability grouping in math has helped me succeed

67%

11%

66%

4%

67%

6%

70%

11%

Q8/Q10. Ability grouping in Reading/English has helped me succeed

72%

3%

68%

7%

55%

12%

81%

5%

Q9/Q11. My teachers provide time for me to ask questions

64%

8%

54%

13%

67%

3%

72%

5%

Q10/Q12. My teachers are available when I need extra help

55%

10%

54%

6%

68%

4%

64%

9%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: ASSESSMENT

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Student Questions 11/13, 12/14, 15 and 16

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q11/Q13. I understand why standardized tests are important

79%

6%

70%

7%

62%

11%

58%

17%

Q12/Q14. I understand how my assignments are graded

59%

10%

68%

14%

79%

6%

76%

3%

Q15. My teachers return graded assignments within one week

20%

29%

27%

25%

Q16. I understand how my grades are calculated

72%

6%

82%

5%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Student Questions 13/17, 14/18, 15/19, 16/20 and 17/21

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q13/Q17. My teachers are consistent when enforcing their rule

72%

5%

62%

7%

50%

13%

56%

8%

Q14/Q18. The kids in the classroom follow the rules

21%

19%

17%

23%

25%

12%

27%

25%

Q15/Q19. I understand the school's discipline policy

83%

5%

78%

15%

75%

7%

83%

6%

Q16/Q20. I feel safe at school

75%

8%

66%

7%

68%

8%

79%

9%

Q17/Q21. I look forward to coming to school

34%

24%

32%

25%

20%

32%

27%

33%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS (CONT’D)

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Student Questions 18/22, 19/23, 20/24, 21/25 and 22/26

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q18/22. The kids in my school respect the teachers

45%

12%

42%

7%

34%

14%

40%

16%

Q19/23. My teachers in my school respect the students

77%

4%

72%

6%

50%

14%

63%

6%

Q20/24. I feel like I belong at LA

68%

11%

61%

11%

60%

11%

58%

11%

Q21/25. Students at LA support each other

53%

8%

43%

8%

57%

9%

50%

10%

Q22/26. I would recommend LA to a friend

65%

15%

53%

12%

43%

24%

53%

20%

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STAFF SURVEY

  • Revised in 2019-2020
  • Administered Feb 26 through March 7
  • Moved some questions in 2020-2021
  • Forty-three questions (same as 2019-2020)
  • All teachers and staff received the survey
  • Completed 29 (compared to 36 surveys in 2019-2020)
  • Average time to complete 7.5 minutes (compared to 14 in 2019-2020)
  • 2020-2021 data calculated with NA removed from the denominator
  • Recalculated 2019-2020 data by removing NA from denominator so it is comparable to 2020-2021

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: ACADEMIC STANDARDS

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Staff Questions 1-3

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q1. The expectations for student achievement are reasonable

94%

3%

100%

0%

Q2. Littleton Academy provides a content-rich, academically rigorous education in my instructional area

94%

3%

92%

0%

Q3. The students receive an education consistent with the charter and founding principles

86%

3%

93%

3%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: CURRICULUM

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Staff Question 4

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q4. The curriculum provides a coherent, content-specific foundation of learning

Math

50%

34%

80%

16%

Science

100%

0%

96%

4%

Language Arts

94%

0%

96%

0%

Social Studies

100%

0%

100%

0%

Spanish (added 2020-2021)

100%

0%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: CURRICULUM

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Staff Questions 5-8

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q5. I have flexibility to respond to student needs while keeping fidelity to the curriculum

91%

3%

88%

8%

Q6. The curriculum provides the opportunity for students to master my subject matter

88%

8%

77%

8%

Q7. The curriculum provides the opportunity for academic achievement for every student

89%

6%

97%

3%

Q8. I am able to meet scope and sequence of approved curriculum

91%

0%

91%

4%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS AND ASSESSMENT

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Staff Questions 9-11

Q9 and Q10 - Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q9. The homework I assign is substantive

94%

0%

86%

0%

Q10. I support the philosophy and preference to ability group in math and reading

94%

0%

100%

0%

Q11. Amount of attention given to standardized tests is…

Too much

15%

9%

Just the right amount

79%

87%

Too little

6%

4%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: ENVIRONMENT

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Staff Questions 12 and 13

Q12 - Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q12. I feel ownership for solving problems in the classroom.

97%

0%

88%

4%

Q13. How prepared are you to deal with a school safety issue and/or emergency situation?

1 (less prepared)

3%

7%

2

0%

0%

3

19%

7%

4

44%

31%

5 (most prepared)

33%

55%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Staff Questions 14-16

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q14. LASA effectively supports Littleton Academy’s goals

88%

0%

93%

7%

Q15. There is sufficient time within the schedule to cover the required subject matter effectively

77%

11%

72%

12%

Q16. I am provided sufficient opportunity for continuing education and training

64%

19%

89%

8%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Staff Questions 17-18

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q17. The level of financial assistance for professional growth opportunities is adequate

56%

6%

73%

8%

Q18. I am provided with an adequate budget for resources to effectively teach the required objectives

65%

16%

88%

0%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Staff Questions 19

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q19. I understand the school’s conflict resolution policy

56%

31%

Teacher - Teacher

69%

8%

Teacher – Administrator

71%

11%

Teacher - Student

89%

4%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Staff Questions 20-23

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q20. The Governing Board communicates effectively with staff

44%

35%

63%

7%

Q21. The Governing Board cares about staff satisfaction

60%

11%

77%

8%

Q22. The Governing Board is transparent in how it governs the school

60%

9%

75%

7%

Q23. The powers and duties of the Governing Board are to establish and implement policies that advance the Academy’s purpose. I feel that the current Governing Board is successfully performing this role.

69%

6%

76%

7%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Staff Questions 24-30

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q24. Feedback given to me by the Principal is useful

86%

10%

Q25. I feel comfortable communicating concerns to the Principal

89%

10%

Q26. The Principal provides effective leadership

89%

7%

Q27. The Principal upholds the mission statement and founding principles of Littleton Academy

97%

3%

Q28. The Principal sets high expectations for the staff

93%

3%

Q29. The Principal appropriately responds to my questions and concerns

90%

10%

Q30. The Principal holds me accountable for student achievement

89%

0%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Staff Questions 31a-e 2020-2021

Significantly Exceeded, Exceeded, Achieved, Partially Achieved, Did Not Achieve

Signif

Exceed

Exceed

Achieved

Partial

Achieve

DN

Achieve

Q31a. Principal Goal #1:  Communication - demonstrate effective communication with stakeholders (staff, teachers, parents, governing board, etc.)

48%

28%

17%

3%

3%

Q31b. Principal Goal #2:  Promote a culture that aligns to the Founding Principles, Charter, and Mission

66%

14%

14%

7%

0%

Q31c. Principal Goal #3:  Demonstrate exceptional academic achievement

55%

24%

14%

7%

0%

Q31d. Principal Goal #4:  Support and develop a safe, orderly, and caring learning environment

66%

10%

14%

10%

0%

Q31e. Principal Goal #5:  Demonstrate effective school operations

62%

17%

21%

0%

0%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Staff Questions 32-37

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

Asked as Vice-principal in 2019-2020

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q32. Disciplinary standards are enforced consistently by the administrative staff as documented in the Student/Parent handbook

55%

24%

Q33. The administrative staff upholds the mission statement and founding principles of Littleton Academy

97%

0%

Q34. The administrative staff sets high expectations for the staff

90%

3%

Q35. The administrative staff appropriately responds to my questions and concerns

90%

10%

Q36. The administrative staff holds me accountable for student achievement and discipline

93%

0%

Q37. The administrative staff provides effective leadership

86%

7%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

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Staff Questions 38-42

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q38. The Director of Operations handles facility concerns promptly and efficiently

100%

0%

Q39. The Director of Operations appropriately responds to my questions and concerns

100%

0%

Q40. The Director of Operations manages payroll, field trip details, and fee receipting well

100%

0%

Q41. The Director of Operations provides effective leadership

97%

0%

Q42. The Director of Operations handles day to day issues such as substitutes, processing forms, and requests well

100%

0%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES: OPERATIONS

27

Staff Questions 43

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q43. Overall, I am satisfied with my teaching experience.

89%

7%

89%

4%

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PARENT SURVEY

  • Sent to 562 email addresses
  • Completed 81 surveys compared to 200 surveys (36%) in 2019-2020
  • Average time to complete 9 minutes
  • 2020-2021 Changes
    • Changed all response criteria (except 11, 15, 35 and 36) to Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA including:
      • Always, Often, Sometimes, Rarely, Never and Neutral/No opportunity to observe
    • Eliminated Neutral/No opportunity to observe from the parent survey since “neutral” is replaced by Neither Agree nor Disagree and “No opportunity to observe” is replaced by NA
    • Removed NA from the denominator of all question choices when calculating the percentages and evaluating the data

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: ACADEMIC STANDARDS

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Parent Question 1

Check all that apply

2019-20

2020-21

Q1. My children have made progress in the following skills:

Reading

96%

91%

Writing

91%

84%

Math

88%

86%

Science

94%

89%

Social Studies

93%

86%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: ACADEMIC STANDARDS

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Parent Questions 2-6

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q2. LA has established, communicated and maintained high expectations for my child(ren)'s learning

94%

3%

Q3. LA provides academic support when needed

82%

4%

Q4. LA individualizes education in a manner that supports my child(ren)’s growth

84%

6%

Q5. LA has adequately communicated my child(ren)’s academic progress or lack thereof

79%

16%

Q6. LA’s grading practices are fair and consistent

80%

10%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: CURRICULUM

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Parent Questions 7, 9, 10

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q7. LA ensures academic growth for my child(ren)

94%

1%

Q9. LA provides a content-rich, academically rigorous education

96%

1%

Q10. LA homework supports academic growth and supports learning in the classroom

80%

10%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: CURRICULUM

32

Parent Question 8

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q8. Level of curriculum meets or exceeds my expectations:

Reading

89%

3%

Math

73%

21%

Language Arts/English

91%

4%

Social Studies

89%

4%

Science

85%

9%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: CURRICULUM

33

Parent Question 8 (Continued)

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q8. Level of curriculum meets or exceeds my expectations:

Spanish

84%

4%

Music

85%

4%

Art

85%

4%

P.E.

93%

2%

Technology

76%

14%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: CURRICULUM

34

Parent Question 11

Check all that apply

2019-20

2020-21

Q11. LA increases student:

Content mastery

82%

75%

Critical thinking and creativity

77%

73%

Problem solving

78%

68%

Self-direction and personal responsibility

88%

88%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS

35

Parent Question 12

Check all that apply

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q12. The following founding principles are fulfilled:

Frequent and substantive homework is assigned and graded

86%

6%

Instruction is textbook-driven with books going home

71%

14%

Time spent on nonacademic subjects is minimized

84%

4%

Ability grouping is used for math and reading

98%

0%

Academic time on task is emphasized

86%

3%

Correct spelling is emphasized at all grade levels; inventive spelling is not permitted

94%

0%

Factual knowledge, memorization, and drills are important and used to achieve mastery

90%

1%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: ASSESSMENTS

36

Parent Question 13

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q13. My child(ren) and I are kept well-informed of student progress, achievements, and areas of growth in:

Reading

79%

11%

Math

79%

16%

Language Arts/English

80%

9%

Social Studies

77%

12%

Science

79%

8%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: ASSESSMENTS

37

Parent Question 13 (continued)

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q13. My child(ren) and I are kept well-informed of student progress, achievements, and areas of growth in:

Spanish

82%

7%

Music

84%

6%

Art

81%

6%

P.E

86%

4%

Technology

73%

12%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: ASSESSMENTS

38

Parent Questions 14-16

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q14. LA keeps me informed of my child(ren)’s assessment results (Infinite Campus, report cards, conferences)

88%

9%

Q15. I receive my child(ren)'s standardized test results (Yes)

79%

Q16. I understand my child(ren)'s standardized test results

Standardized reading/English language arts assessments [ITBS (K-2), CMAS (3-8), and iReady (K-6)]

77%

15%

Standardized math assessments [ITBS (1-2), or CMAS (3-8), iReady (K-6)]

79%

15%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: ENVIRONMENT

39

Parent Questions 17-21

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q17. LA provides a safe environment for my child(ren)

93%

4%

Q18. Discipline standards are enforced fairly as they apply to my child(ren)

86%

5%

Q19. Dress code standards are enforced fairly as they apply to my child(ren)

93%

5%

Q20. I am satisfied with LA's efforts to address bullying behaviors in the school

69%

11%

Q21. I am satisfied with the supervision on the field and playground

74%

9%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: OPERATIONS

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Parent Questions 22-26

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q22. I am comfortable approaching my child(ren)'s teachers with questions and concerns

95%

4%

Q23. LA provides a structured and supervised learning environment for my child(ren)

96%

1%

Q24. I am comfortable approaching the front office staff with questions and concerns

89%

7%

Q25. I have a positive impression of the front office staff

86%

8%

Q26. I have the opportunity to provide input to staff evaluations through parent perception surveys

87%

5%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: OPERATIONS

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Parent Questions 27-30

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q27. The Governing Board communicates effectively with parents

86%

3%

Q28. The Governing Board cares about parent satisfaction

70%

3%

Q29. The Governing Board is transparent in how it governs the school

73%

5%

Q30. The powers and duties of the Governing Board are to establish and implement policies that advance Littleton Academy's purpose. I feel that the current Governing Board is successfully performing this role.

79%

5%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: OPERATIONS

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Parent Question 31

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q31. The Principal keeps the school focused on the following Founding Principles:

Academic Rigor and Achievement

96%

1%

Core Knowledge Curriculum

96%

1%

Instructional Methods

94%

1%

Assessment

90%

1%

School Environment

93%

3%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: OPERATIONS

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Parent Questions 32-34

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q32. The Principal knows the students and parents of Littleton Academy

82%

5%

Q33. The Principal communicates effectively with the students and parents of Littleton Academy

92%

1%

Q34. The Principal makes me feel welcome at Littleton Academy

91%

3%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: OPERATIONS

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Parent Question 35

Rank 1-5 with #1 being the most preferred method

1

2

3

4

5

Q35. Which method of communication do you prefer for general school information?

Gator Bites Weekly Newsletter

70%

21%

4%

2%

2%

Littleton Academy Web page

7%

27%

37%

19%

10%

Thursday folders (elementary only)

20%

42%

14%

12%

12%

Littleton Academy calendar

1%

6%

37%

47%

9%

Littleton Academy Facebook page

1%

4%

9%

20%

67%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: OPERATIONS

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Parent Questions 36

Rank 1-4 with #1 being the most preferred method

1

2

3

4

Q36. How do you prefer to receive information from your child(ren)'s teacher(s)?  Please rank 1-4 with #1 being your most preferred method.

Grade-specific newsletters

5%

30%

46%

20%

Individual teacher web pages

4%

12%

33%

51%

Thursday folders (elementary only)

19%

38%

14%

30%

Email communication

73%

20%

7%

0%

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLE: OPERATIONS

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Parent Question 37

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q37. Considering my complete experience, I would recommend Littleton Academy to a friend

94%

4%

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SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS

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RECOMMENDATIONS AND ACTIONS 2019-2020

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RECOMMENDATIONS 2019-2020

Student Survey

  1. Q13/Q17. My teachers are consistent when enforcing their rules
    • LA provided a school-wide, all staff training at the beginning of the year. They highlighted changes in the handbook and they follow up throughout the year if they see violations.

Staff Survey

  1. LAAC recommended a fall and spring staff meeting to include an overview by LASA of available funding and support for teachers and reimbursement process
    • LASA participation and funding has increased this year for teachers. Teachers feel comfortable getting their assistance and LASA has been very generous. They have approved every teacher request this year.
  2. LAAC recommended the Principal routinely communicate Governing Board “touchpoints” to staff through creative avenues and at staff meetings following GB meetings
    • Ms. McEntire updates the staff at monthly meetings on any important GB news or needs. In addition, the GB has been very diligent in doing monthly updates in the newsletter, which the staff reads.

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RECOMMENDATIONS 2019-2020

Parent Follow-up Survey

Math

LAAC recommended following up with elementary teachers to determine which content of Zearn properly overlaps with Core Knowledge, and devise a plan for addressing any topics from Core Knowledge not sufficiently covered in Zearn and conduct more routine Zearn training.

      • LA did "remote" Zearn training at the beginning of the year and emphasized the training modules again. They have given their new VP the task of a "deeper dive" into continuing teacher support next year as they strive to ability group with the new curriculum. Their math interventionist has purchased an intervention package to fill holes she identified.

Spanish

LAAC recommended:

      • Return to vocabulary in elementary and moving to grammar in middle school  
      • Return to traditional teacher-led classes that align with Littleton Academy founding principles
      • Prove Littleton Academy is teaching pre-high school with fidelity
      • Return to textbook-driven scope and sequence curriculum

      • Spanish is a highlight this year. The Principal has heard nothing but excellent reviews from parents regarding the return to a more academic Spanish program and the 3-5 component is especially strong. LA’s 8th grade class will have 95% transcripting for High School Spanish 1 or 2. 

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RECOMMENDATIONS 2019-2020

General

  1. Create a school-wide document for both parents and the public that explains what is taught at each grade level
    • LA gave the community a copy of the K-8 scope and sequence yearly plan in the fall
    • LA has seen a much better and proactive staff sharing of what students are learning at each grade level

  • Have a monthly teacher newsletter/update recapping what students learned, what they are learning and what they will learn
    • Middle school teachers report in the newsletter once a month, specials and elementary teachers send them more frequently

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STUDENT SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS & RECOMMENDATIONS 2020-2021

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STUDENT SURVEY – HIGHLIGHTED DATA

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Student Questions 2, 3 and 15

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q2. I am learning in:

Science

79%

5%

77%

6%

93%

1%

59%

16%

Q3. I feel challenged in:

Language Arts/English

47%

30%

36%

33%

43%

27%

68%

14%

Science

46%

29%

38%

27%

72%

11%

30%

29%

Q15. My teachers return graded assignments within one week

20%

29%

27%

25%

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STUDENT SURVEY – HIGHLIGHTED DATA

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Student Question 4

Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree and Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 3-5

% Agree

% Disagree

2019-2020

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

2020-2021

Grades 6-8

% Agree

% Disagree

Q4. I feel challenged in:

Art

32%

43%

24%

44%

Music

33%

37%

32%

39%

Library

24%

43%

P.E.

33%

42%

34%

33%

Technology

30%

40%

Q4. I feel challenged in Art, Music, Library, P.E., Technology (2019-2020 data)

32%

37%

23%

40%

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RECOMMENDATIONS 2020-21BASED ON STUDENT DATA

  1. Charge administration to investigate all significant changes in student sentiment regarding academics
  2. Teachers returning assignments within one week is still low at 27% but increased from 20% last year

Specials are low again but these are not core subjects (I feel challenged in…)

    • LAAC should consider:
    • The rationale for asking this question the same way in the future
    • Give data directly and exclusively to the principal for singular subjects where the subject has only one teacher

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STAFF SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

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STAFF SURVEY - HIGHLIGHTED DATA

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Staff Question 4, 16, 17, 18

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q4. The curriculum provides a coherent, content-specific foundation of learning - Math

50%

34%

80%

16%

Q16. I am provided sufficient opportunity for continuing education and training

64%

19%

89%

8%

Q17. The level of financial assistance for professional growth opportunities is adequate

56%

6%

73%

8%

Q18. I am provided with an adequate budget for resources to effectively teach the required objectives

65%

16%

88%

0%

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STAFF SURVEY - HIGHLIGHTED DATA

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Staff Questions 19, 32, 39-42

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither agree nor disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and N/A

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q19. I understand the school’s conflict resolution policy

56%

31%

Teacher - Teacher

69%

8%

Teacher – Administrator

71%

11%

Teacher - Student

89%

4%

Q39-42 Director of Operations

97-100%

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STAFF SURVEY - HIGHLIGHTED DATA

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Staff Questions 20-23

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2019-20

% SA + A

% SD + D

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q20. The Governing Board communicates effectively with staff

44%

35%

63%

7%

Q21. The Governing Board cares about staff satisfaction

60%

11%

77%

8%

Q22. The Governing Board is transparent in how it governs the school

60%

9%

75%

7%

Q23. The powers and duties of the Governing Board are to establish and implement policies that advance the Academy’s purpose. I feel that the current Governing Board is successfully performing this role.

69%

6%

76%

7%

Q20-23 – Governing Board (Chart on next slide)

The percent of staff who strongly agree or agree about the communication, caring, transparency and role of the Governing Board increased in all four areas: 44-63%,60-77%, 60-75% and 69-76% respectively.

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STAFF SURVEY - HIGHLIGHTED DATA

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Many staff/parents do not attend meetings so they have no experience or frame of reference. This is an example of how Neither Agree nor Disagree can alter the way data are interpretated when it is not taken into consideration for this population.

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Comments

    • There were no identifiable trends
    • 24 total comments in 8 topic areas
      • “One comment does not make a trend”
    • Math was the most frequently mentioned subject - 11 times
    • Curriculum was mentioned 9 times
    • All individual comments were shared with the Principal
      • Principal can evaluate and follow-up

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RECOMMENDATIONS 2020-21 BASED ON STAFF SURVEY

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PARENT SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

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PARENT SURVEY – HIGHLIGHTED DATA

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Parent Questions 8 and 37

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q8. Level of curriculum meets or exceeds my expectations: Spanish

84%

4%

Q37. Considering my complete experience, I would recommend Littleton Academy to a friend

94%

4%

Q8. Level of curriculum meets or exceeds my expectations: Spanish

(84%) SA + A compared to (48%) last year

Q37. New question - Considering my complete experience, I would recommend Littleton Academy to a friend (94%)

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PARENT FOLLOW-UP SURVEY

  • Administered March 11-19
  • Resurveyed those questions below the 80% threshold and solicited parent comments
  • Sent to 562 email addresses
  • Received 57 completed surveys (70% of original responses)
  • Average time to complete 5 minutes
  • Ten of the 11 questions asked in 2020-21 were the same as last year
    • Q5 was new
  • Received 120 comments
    • “One comment does not make a trend”
    • LAAC did not consider comments that were specific to individual staff members

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FOLLOW-UP PARENT SURVEY COMMENTS

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Parent Question 5 Follow-up Survey

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q5. LA has adequately communicated my child(ren)’s academic progress or lack thereof (e.g. Thursday folders, progress reports, report cards, or conferences).

79%

16%

Comments = 17

This is the only new question included in the follow-up survey this year.

Many responses were a mix of positive and negative comments or expressions of concern.

Communication in general continues to be important to parents.

Some parents mentioned a “learning curve” during the transition from elementary to middle school.

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FOLLOW-UP PARENT SURVEY COMMENTS

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Parent Question 8 Follow-up Survey

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q8. Level of curriculum meets or exceeds my expectations:

Math

73%

21%

Technology

76%

14%

Comments = 21

Zearn and Math continue to be the most frequently and intensely stated concerns.

Parents described Zearn/Math with words like “appalling,” “repetitive,” and “confusing.”

Parents described Zearn/Math as not challenging, lacking in content-rich rigor, failing students and the school, dependent on screen time, miserable on so many levels, and not in alignment with core principles.

Parents are generally unclear about the technology curriculum.

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FOLLOW-UP PARENT SURVEY COMMENTS

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Parent Question 11 Follow-up Survey

(Check all that apply):

2019-20

2020-21

Q11. LA increases student:

Content mastery

82%

75%

Critical thinking and creativity

77%

73%

Problem solving

78%

68%

Comments = 12

Parent comments were generally a mix of positive and negative responses.

Zearn/Math was mentioned again as negatively affecting all three areas.

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FOLLOW-UP PARENT SURVEY COMMENTS

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Parent Question 12 Follow-up Survey

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q12. Which of the following founding principles are fulfilled?

Instruction is textbook-driven with books going home

71%

14%

Comments = 12

Four of 12 parents expressed concern that Zearn was as example of a subject where textbooks do not exist. “A wire bound collection of worksheets is not a textbook.”

Parents use physical and on-line textbooks as references when they are helping their students so they are viewed as critical.

This was also a concern in 2019-20 and the administration’s response is, “We do still have the founding principle of "textbook driven." The definition of textbook is print or electronic. Some texts are now available through our own printing only (CKLA is this way). This means we get the electronic file and then we must print our own copies of the book or reader for students.”

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FOLLOW-UP PARENT SURVEY COMMENTS

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Parent Question 13 Follow-up Survey

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q13. My child(ren) and I are kept well-informed of student progress, achievements, and areas of growth in:

Reading

79%

11%

Math

79%

16%

Social Studies

77%

12%

Science

79%

8%

Technology

73%

12%

Comments = 12

Parents expressed frustration when assignments are not posted to Infinite Campus in a timely manner or are not graded or corrected.

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FOLLOW-UP PARENT SURVEY COMMENTS

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Parent Questions 20-21 Follow-up Survey

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q20. I am satisfied with LA's efforts to address bullying behaviors in the school

69%

11%

Q21. I am satisfied with the supervision on the field and playground

74%

9%

Comments = 11 each

More than half of the responses were positive or indicated no experience.

Two parents suggested that a fence around the outdoor area would add a degree of safety.

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FOLLOW-UP PARENT SURVEY COMMENTS

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Parent Question 28-30 Follow-up Survey

Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree and NA

2020-21

% SA + A

% SD + D

Q28. The Governing Board cares about parent satisfaction

70%

3%

Q29. The Governing Board is transparent in how it governs the school

73%

5%

Q30. The powers and duties of the Governing Board are to establish and implement policies that advance Littleton Academy's purpose. I feel that the current Governing Board is successfully performing this role.

79%

5%

Comments = 11/2/8

Comments were generally personnel-related.

Individual comments mentioned the capital campaign and soliciting comments, small vocal minority overrepresentation, and increased student:teacher ratio.

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  • Zearn/Math - Convene a Curriculum Review Committee for Math
    • Science is scheduled in 2021-22 and Math in 2022-23
    • This is the second year that parents felt strongly that it was failing their children
    • Parents stressed that Zearn is not textbook-driven
      • Acknowledge that Zearn does not have the traditional textbook support to which they are accustomed
      • Share with parents that LA has purchased and uses all available materials related to Zearn
    • There may be a disconnect between staff and parent perceptions
      • Staff survey question 4 “The curriculum provides a coherent, content-specific foundation of learning results – Math” = 80% vs. 50% in 2019-20 (due to increased training in 2020-21?)
      • Parent survey question 8 ”The level of math curriculum meets or exceeds my expectations” = 73% with strong negative comments
    • Find ways to support parents in the interim through town halls, etc.
    • Can this wait for years while Core Knowledge develops a Math curriculum?

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RECOMMENDATIONS BASED ON FOLLOW-UP PARENT SURVEY COMMENTS

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  • Communication
    • Infinite Campus is a critical tool if it’s kept up-to-date
    • Communicate the Technology curriculum for grades K-5 and stress that there is no formal curriculum at the Middle School level
      • This was outlined in the LA Core Knowledge Yearly Plan for 2020-2021 spreadsheet that was distributed in the Fall of 2020
    • Communicate textbook information for parents
      • Include the access points per grade for each online text
      • Include specific details like the name of the text and how to access it in class and at home

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RECOMMENDATIONS BASED ON PARENT SURVEY

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TAKEAWAYS 2020-2021

  • These surveys continue to be important tools
    • They form a composite narrative about LA’s climate, culture, experiences, and alignment with and fidelity to Littleton Academy's Mission Statement and Founding Principles

  • Many positives in a year with incredible challenges
    • Spanish turned around
  • 94% of parents strongly agreed or agreed with the statement, “Considering my complete experience, I would recommend Littleton Academy to a friend.”
  • 89% of staff strongly agreed or agreed with the statement, “Overall, I am satisfied with my teaching experience.” This was the same as last year.

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PUBLIC RELEASE

LAAC requests that the Governing Board approve the release of the 2020-21 Annual Report to the Littleton Academy Community

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

All raw data are available (excluding staff and parent comments) for longitudinal purposes

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