Studies show improving conditions for learning will lead to higher test scores and improved student conduct and attitudes.  The Iowa Department of Education was one of 11 state educational organizations to be awarded nearly $3.5 million in federal funds in October 2010. Nearly $14 million in funds will be awarded over the next four years to support efforts that will measure and improve statewide conditions for learning.  These measures include school safety, student engagement in school, and the overall school environment.

Last spring, Central High School was invited to participate in the grant and students, parents and teachers took the first-ever Iowa Safe and Supportive Schools survey to measure conditions for learning, which includes everything from school safety to student relationships with peers and adults.  

Data from the student surveys and other school incident data have been used to create a Safe and Supportive Schools Index that reflects the health of a school's optimal conditions for learning in the areas of safety, engagement and environment.  A school could earn 9 points in the area of Safety, 18 points in the area of Engagement and 9 points in the area of Environment for a total possible score of 36 points.  The Iowa Safe and Supportive Schools Index therefore has a range from 0 - 36.

Central High School INDEX = 18

The following table shows the Index Range and what level of support is needed to improve conditions for learning at Central High School.

Schools that scored below 22 showed the greatest opportunity for improvement and received funding to strengthen conditions for learning.  All schools that participated in the survey will receive additional support from the Department of Education and the Mississippi Bend AEA

 The chart below provides information about each of the data elements that make up the index.

Central High School now begins the process of working together with the Mississippi Bend AEA and the Iowa Department of Education to strengthen overall conditions for learning in our schools and we are confident in four years Central High School will be a model for schools across the state and nation. 

 With the eyes of local, state and national leaders upon us, we are up to the challenge of embracing change and finding new and creative ways to support our students and ensure they are given the opportunity to succeed.

For more information about the Safe and Supportive Schools Index and grant, contact:

Robert Scott at scottr@davenportschools.org

Michael Orfitelli at orfitellim@davenportschools.org

You can also visit www.safesupportiowa.com