Penn Hills School District Achieves Growth in Building Scores for 2023-2024 School Year

All three buildings within the Penn Hills School District — Penn Hills Elementary School, Linton Middle School, and Penn Hills High School — have shown an increase in their building scores from the 2022-2023 school year to the 2023-2024 school year. This positive trend reflects the district's commitment to its comprehensive plan, continuous improvement, and student success. 

Building scores are calculated based on a combination of factors that vary slightly between grade levels. For elementary and middle schools, the scores are comprised of growth (40%), proficiency (40%), and attendance (20%). At the high school level, growth and proficiency remain equally weighted at 40% each, while attendance contributes 10% and the graduation rate accounts for the remaining 10%. Growth is measured using the Pennsylvania Value-Added Assessment System (PVAAS), while proficiency is determined through Keystone and PSSA scores. Attendance rates are based on the percentage of students who are not chronically absent, defined as missing more than 10% of school days in a year. 

The district attributes this upward trend to a focus on data-driven decision-making and reflective practices. Teachers regularly review data throughout the year during professional development sessions and after-school meetings, ensuring they can tailor instruction to meet the needs of their students effectively. 

An especially noteworthy aspect of this progress is the implementation of new academic programs. The new math curriculum, introduced for grades K-8, completed its second year of implementation during the 2023-2024 school year. While there was a slight decline in scores during the initial year of the program, gains were noticeable in the 2023-2024 school year. This year also represents the full implementation of the new English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum, "Wit & Wisdom," which was piloted last year. These programs align with the district's comprehensive plan and underscore its commitment to providing high-quality educational resources. 

While the district celebrates these achievements, it remains focused on sustaining and accelerating progress. By continually analyzing and responding to data, making necessary adjustments, and fostering a culture of collaboration, Penn Hills School District is building a strong foundation for student success.