The back-to-school season came with an annual reminder of areas to celebrate and focus on for students in Surry County. According to the 2022-23 North Carolina Public Schools testing results presented to the State Board of Education members on September 6, Surry County Schools ranked 22nd of 115 school systems in the state in overall performance.
Students in grades 3-12 continued to achieve higher than the state and region. Surry County had an overall 59.4% grade-level proficiency score, while the state of North Carolina had an overall score of 53.6% grade-level proficiency. 15 out of 20 schools in the district met or exceeded growth, versus 11 out of 20 during the 2021-2022 school year. Surry County Schools exceeded the state average in 19 of 21 areas that measure student performance. Additionally, the cohort graduation rate for the school year stands at 90.2%, placing Surry County Schools 3.8% above the state average.
5th grade science saw a growth of 6.1% from the previous year, placing Surry County Schools 10.9% above the state average and Top 20 in North Carolina. 8th Grade Math also saw high growth, placing the district 15.6% above the state average and 7th overall in North Carolina. 4th grade reading, 7th grade math, 7th grade reading, and 8th grade science also placed in the top 20 in North Carolina.
In grades 3 through 8, 7 of 10 cohort groups improved in overall proficiency in 2022-23.
In high schools, the district saw growth in Math III, Biology and English II compared to the previous year. ACT data shows the district composite score also placed above the state average.
Students in grades kindergarten through third grade are assessed in Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (Dibels) three times each year. At the end of 2022-2023, kindergarten through third grade students increased in proficiency from 55% at the end of 2022 to 66 % at the end of 2023.
Dr. Travis L. Reeves, Superintendent, was enthusiastic about the data, stating, “Analyzing the 2022-2023 Surry County Schools test data fills us with immense pride and renewed determination. Our students' performance showcases the knowledge and skills gained in classrooms while also reflecting the dedication of our educators and the support of our community. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of education, these results serve as a testament to our commitment to providing a high-quality learning experience that empowers every student to succeed academically and in life. We celebrate these achievements and remain committed to helping students design their dreams and grow as leaders.”
Looking forward to the 2023-2024 school year, Surry County Schools has chosen the theme “Thrive” and outlined four key strategic goals to maximize districtwide achievement. First and foremost, Surry County Schools aims to increase academic excellence by focusing on improving academic outcomes across all subjects through a literacy lens. Dr. DeAnne Danley, Assistant Superintendent states “All content areas K-12 will be focusing on supporting all students to become better readers, writers, and thinkers. Literacy is the foundation of all subject areas. It is so important for students to be able read and respond to written text.”
Additionally, the district is committed to fostering a culture of collaborative teaching and learning among our educators. This includes teachers working closely with their colleagues to craft engaging lessons and hands-on learning experiences for students. Surry County Schools will continue to grow teacher leaders through Professional Learning Communities, where educators can develop their leadership skills and contribute to the growth of their peers and students.
In efforts to strengthen parent and family engagement, Surry County Schools also remains dedicated to maintaining clear and consistent lines of communication between all schools and parents. To achieve this, Surry County Schools is employing various communication channels, including the launch of a new mobile app and website, new digital signs at traditional high schools, and increased video content and newsletters from schools. These measures will help schools connect with and inform their entire educational community, ensuring that everyone is well-informed and thriving in the upcoming school year.