Data in a Dolores schools test-score table in the Dolores Star on Thursday, Sept. 19, were correct, but contained a misleading title.
The table compared 2012 and 2013 growth performance levels, compiled by the state, from test scores for each Dolores school in three subjects.
However, instead of "Dolores TCAP Scores" it should have been titled "Dolores School Growth Scores." Reference in the article to the data in the table should also have referred to the numbers as part of the Dolores School Growth Scores.
The Growth Scores use student TCAP tests to measure performance over time compared with other state schools.
"The TCAP scores of each student and school are sent to our assessment team who analyze, and then puts together the Growth Score performance data," said Clayton Hollingshead, of the Colorado Department of Education.
According to the CDE, the Colorado Growth Model is a state-required measurement that shows how test scores for students progress from year to year toward state standards.
Each student's progress is compared to the progress of other students in the state with a similar score history on state assessment tests (TCAP, CSAP) in that subject area, according to CDE officials.
The Growth Model shows the level of growth needed to determine that students were, on average, on track to catch up or keep up (adequate growth). The growth data shows the schools and districts that produce the highest rates of growth in academic achievement.
Growth level is completely independent of achievement level for individual students.
