Will they appeal?

Now that Florida's school grades are out, the next step is to look closely at the data. Part of the reason is to see where schools can improve. But another angle is to see whether any details might warrant a change in the grade.

Hillsborough County, for instance, had four D-rated elementary schools (Westshore, Robles, Just and Clair-Mel) that came within 4 points of receiving a C. Hudson Middle in Pasco missed a B grade by just one point. Tarpon Springs High in Pinellas missed a C by one point.

Pasco's research and evaluation director, Peggy Jones, tells the Gradebook that her department plans to analyze the data files that the state has sent out with an eye toward helping the district's two D-rated schools plus "anybody who is close."

The state closely reviews requests for grade changes (see rules here on page 21), and sometimes even grants them. But first districts have to appeal. The deadline to do that is Aug. 8.

Comments

[lisa]

Both Tarpon Springs and Lakewood High should have their grade reviewed. Both schools outscore Clearwater and Countryside, yet end up with a "D". Their numbers are both a high C, almost a B, yet they were both penalized by a grade letter.If they were penalized, then so should Gibbs and Boca Ciega, who may end up as F school. Lakewood's stats are identical to Countryside, yet they are penalized by a grade letter. Review !!!