Cornell School Board; There’s a bigger picture than state report cards
By Ginna Young
The state report cards are out, showing what school districts are meeting expectations, which Cornell falls under, as discussed at the school board meeting Nov. 22.
“Don’t look at the actual report score as much,” said superintendent Paul Schley. Schley says there is much that goes into a state report card, which is often confusing. For example, Cornell’s elementary scored a 75.8 overall, but had high scores in reading, English language arts (ELA) and math, of which they are advanced/ proficient.
One school in the area, scored in the 80s, but their scores in ELA and math were below average. Growth is also taken into account, based on previous report cards.
“We don’t get a big growth score, we’ve always had high scores,” said Schley. “We’re really proud of our academic achievements, especially in this building.”
Chiming in with his report on the district, athletic director Greg Sonnentag says it’s been interesting with scheduling this year, with low numbers of athletes and many teams without JV squads.
“It’s been a challenging year, that way,” he said. Sonnentag also noted the district is training staff from funding from a mental health grant they received and that teachers are helping with grades during Chief Time. He said it’s always harder to keep students on track around the holidays, but that Cornell is working to provide extra support.
With only a few weeks left to go, Sonnentag is finishing up his principal training to complete his administrative degree.
Also giving a report to the board, was family education director Jenny Blaisdell, who says there are 73 students enrolled in the after-school program. Cornell received a couple grants lately, which helps provide the “extras” for students in the after-school program.
Schley reminded members that board elections will take place in the spring and that one seat is up for grabs. Running for re-election will be current member Greg Baker.
During the meeting, the board agreed on the 2022-23 school calendar, with an Aug. 17, 2022, start date, which was approved by the DPI. Schley says he sent the updated calendar to the teachers and didn’t hear any feedback.
“There a couple little breaks in the spring, like you guys wanted,” he said.
Members also approved the hire of high school track assistant coach Courtney Yanko; and middle school girls basketball assistant coach Teagan Nelson.
