The Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has announced that, based on the 2024 ATLAS assessment results and cut scores, the NLRSD will no longer be required to participate in Act 1082 check-ins with the District Support Unit.
ATLAS, short for Arkansas Teaching and Learning Assessment System, replaced ACT Aspire last spring. ATLAS is designed to evaluate student achievement in core subjects, particularly focusing on academic growth and areas for improvement.
Under Ark. Code Ann. § 6-15-2913, DESE provides Coordinated Support to school districts where 40%-49% of students do not score proficient in reading on the prior year’s state summative reading assessment. Because the district exceeded this standard, there is no longer a requirement to participate in the quarterly scheduled meetings with state education leaders.
"This marks a meaningful step forward in our efforts to ensure that all students achieve grade-level reading proficiency,” said Dr. Gregory J. Pilewski, Superintendent of the North LIttle Rock School District.
While this achievement is worth celebrating, the North Little Rock School District will continue to monitor progress and to make adjustments as necessary so that the number of students who are proficient in reading increases. Some of the techniques that have been incorporated and will continue are as follows:
The implementation of high-quality instructional materials, which are research-based tools aligned with academic standards to support effective teaching and learning. These materials provide educators with the resources and guidance needed to foster academic success for all learners.
High-quality professional development for teachers to provide them with strategies, coaching, and follow-up support to foster lasting impact on student achievement.
Targeted intervention for struggling students in an effort to close learning gaps and to support student success.
Classroom monitoring and feedback to teachers by administrators on ways to enhance student achievement.
“This milestone is evidence that we are making huge strides in student achievement. This is a collective effort, which involves our teachers, administrators, our families, and community. We celebrate the progress that has been made, and it gives us the momentum to aim higher,” Dr. Pilewski said.