Student Performance - Overview
At Colegio Maya, several types of assessments are used to
indicate student learning. While traditional standardized, norm-referenced
measures are used, they are not the sole point of focus in discussions by
teachers in addressing student learning needs. The small class sizes at Colegio
Maya, as well as the supportive environment for open student- teacher dialogue
allow for a more continuous and personalized attention to student learning. As
an example, during the past couple of years, based on the standardized test
results, the areas of math computation and vocabulary have been identified as
areas deeming more teacher consideration. As a result, the teachers at Maya
have examined what this looks like in their individual classrooms in terms of
their students’ learning needs and subsequent instruction. Additionally,
content area curricula committees have been working to address these points. Maya
students continue to score well on the Terra Nova,
As well, Colegio Maya continues to develop professionally in its use of performance-based measures in various content areas. As a point of pride, in light of the recent SAT move towards use of a writing essay, Colegio Maya began 3 years ago the practice of students in grades 1-12 writing anchor papers. This exercise has helped teachers to align efforts in the teaching and assessment of writing. As a product of this exercise, 6 + 1 Writing Traits has been selected as an important assessment tool to be used in the writing program at Colegio Maya. Progress in student writing is evident when perusing the student writing showcase portfolios that are kept across the grades.
The senior portfolio is another interesting project whose implementation began a year ago. Based on faculty conversations over the established Colegio Maya Graduate Profile, the senior portfolio has been introduced in phases to allow the graduating senior to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and skills learned during their education that is culminating to-date at Maya. The design of this project is such that it allows the students to celebrate their own multiple intelligences in choice of content and mode of presentation. Overall, the senior portfolio is seen as a way for the graduating senior to joyously contribute to the Colegio Maya learning community.
Finally, but perhaps most importantly while looking at student performance, is the perspective of “what are the students doing when not in the classroom?” Proudly, Colegio Maya students demonstrate their “Catch the Spirit” attitudes while participating in a wide array of academic, athletic, artistic, and cultural activities. School programs in all of these areas continue to grow with student participation. The students are a fine reflection of Colegio Maya as they enthusiastically and humanely ‘put their best feet forward’.