Kentucky Department of Education Identifies Academic and Communication Problems at Bryan Station Middle School
Students Not Held to High Academic Expectations
A state diagnostic team of educators has discovered that students at Bryan Station Middle School in Lexington are not being held to rigorous academic standards. The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) has been summoned to aid in bringing forth changes required at Bryan Station Middle School, which has been marked out by the State as needing comprehensive improvement.
Once schools have been identified for comprehensive support and improvement, they are required to collaborate with local stakeholders to devise and implement a turnaround plan, noted a KDE spokesperson.
Welcome, Safe Environment But Inadequate Academic Progress
A diagnostic review report published on the Kentucky Department of Education’s website showed that Bryan Station Middle School’s students scored consistently below the statewide performance levels in the 2022-23 Kentucky Summative Assessment. This evaluation encompassed various content areas, ranging from reading, math, to science, and social studies. Students struggling with English language learning, in particular, did not register improved performances, necessitating comprehensive support.
However, the review also revealed some positive aspects of the school, such as a welcoming and safe learning environment fostered by the administrative team, teachers, and support staff and positive relationships among the staff and students. Nevertheless, the positive environment did not translate into rigorous academic progress.
Key Findings
A diagnostic review report published on the Kentucky Department of Education’s website showed that Bryan Station Middle School’s students scored consistently below the statewide performance levels in the 2022-23 Kentucky Summative Assessment. This evaluation encompassed various content areas, ranging from reading, math, to science, and social studies. Students struggling with English language learning, in particular, did not register improved performances, necessitating comprehensive support.
However, the review also revealed some positive aspects of the school, such as a welcoming and safe learning environment fostered by the administrative team, teachers, and support staff and positive relationships among the staff and students. Nevertheless, the positive environment did not translate into rigorous academic progress.
The review conducted from Jan. 8-11 unearthed several issues:
- Both the coursework and student activities lacked rigor and engagement.
- Students weren’t consistently held to high academic expectations.
- Many staff members failed to understand why some school initiatives were put into practice.
- Consistent and clear communication was lacking.
- Parents interviewed in a group reported unsatisfactory home-school communication.
Steps Towards Improvement
According to Bill Bradford, Chief School Leadership Officer for Middle Schools in the Fayette County district, the school is making concerted efforts towards improvements in the areas identified by the diagnostic review. He stated that the interactions between adults and students were found positive and respectful and the school displayed improved student behavior and organization over the past year.
Bradford also noted the optimal conditions for learning, including clean building areas and appropriate adult supervision. He emphasized that the administration, faculty, and district support personnel are equipped and ready to put into action revised systems and data-centric processes to increase student achievements and address academic gaps.
Comprehensive Support Required
Bryan Station Middle School is the only school in Fayette County, and one among 28 schools in the state, that requires comprehensive support. Other schools needing comprehensive support are located in Knott County, Warren County, and Jefferson County.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Department of Education’s integral role in turning the situation around at Bryan Station Middle School and similar institutions across the state cannot be understated. Addressing the identified gaps in academic performance, interschool communication, and effectively implementing beneficial school initiatives will not only help the schools improve their standing but will also ensure a brighter future for the students.
