During the 2007-08 school year, district staff looked closely at the number of students in the opportunity gap and gathered input from students, staff, parents, community members, and local business leaders in order and to develop a plan to close the opportunity gap.

FIVE YEAR-PLAN

In 2008, Rochester Public Schools launched the District's Five Year Plan to close the opportunity gap and bring all students to proficiency. In 2007, the district began this important journey by providing staff development opportunities, including Efficacy Training and Courageous Conversations, as well as by focusing on the gap.

THE GAPS

We speak about the achievement gap, the proficiency gap, and the opportunity gap. Closing the achievement gap refers to our commitment to ensuring that disparities in achievement between student groups (for example black/white students) are eliminated. Closing the proficiency gap refers to our commitment to ensuring that all students reach proficiency as measured by the MCA-IIs. And finally, closing the opportunity gap refers to our commitment to ensuring equity and access to the resources and support that will ensure optimal development for all students.

GOOD NEWS DATA

Results indicate that the district has made progress in closing the opportunity gap. Since the implementation of the Five-Year Strategic Plan, Rochester students’ MCA-II results showed increased proficiency in math (4.6%), reading (3.28%) and science (based on January 2011 data). Students who have historically underperformed are currently showing great gains. Black students increased proficiency levels by approximately 10% in reading and 9% in mathematics. Latino students increased by approximately 5% in reading and 13% in math.   We have been able to improve the learning of these students while continuing to accelerate the learning of students who have achieved in the top quartile.