Rhonda Burns

This document presents baseline data and targets for Strategic Waiver School Systems (SWSS) in Georgia, recalculated using the 2017-2018 College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) as the baseline due to changes in the CCRPI formula under ESSA. The document details targets for 2018-2019, 2019-2020, and 2020-2021 school years for various schools within different school systems. It notes changes to targets based on factors such as GOSA's School Code Changes Policy, new schools, charter conversions, and schools receiving Single Scores in 2019 but not 2018. The data is organized by system ID, system name, school ID, school name, grade cluster, baseline score, top quartile threshold, and calculated annual targets.

This strategic plan for the Governor's Honors Program (GHP) addresses seven key themes to ensure its continued success as a premier educational opportunity for gifted and talented students in Georgia. The plan focuses on improving access for all students, particularly underrepresented groups, by enhancing outreach and engagement efforts. It aims to maintain a rigorous curriculum that reflects 21st-century learning needs and surpasses what students receive in their home schools. The plan also emphasizes attracting and retaining high-quality faculty through professional development, compensation improvements, and collaboration with experts. It addresses program setting, operations, and duration, aiming to maintain the program's current four-week length due to budgetary constraints and scheduling challenges. The plan includes ongoing evaluation and data analysis to ensure accountability and identify areas for improvement. Finally, it highlights the importance of engaging GHP alumni and pursuing diversified funding sources through marketing and development efforts.

The meeting focused on the implementation of SB 211 and HB 538, a review of data and discussion on the causes of low literacy, considerations for the 2024 working group, reports from supporting groups (Literacy Coach Design Team, Community Engagement, and Communications--Georgia Reads), and next steps. Specific working group charges were outlined, addressing birth-age 5, K-3rd grade, teacher professional development, and community engagement. These charges included evaluating best practices, researching literacy rates for various student populations, and developing goals and recommendations for policy and appropriations changes. The meeting also included a working lunch and a review of the 2024 working group framework.

The meeting focused on literacy improvements in Georgia's education system. Presentations included updates on the Savannah-Chatham County Schools' literacy initiatives, a recap of the 2024 Georgia General Assembly's impact on early literacy, and a discussion of the Deal Center's survey on the implementation of the Early Learning Act (HB 538). The meeting also featured a presentation on Florida's successful literacy plan and updates on various working groups focused on educator professional development, K-3 initiatives, and community engagement. Finally, there was a discussion of new investments in early learning from the DECAL FY25 budget.

The meeting focused on Georgia's literacy rates and the importance of improving them to support the growing workforce. Discussions included the impact of House Bill 538 and Senate Bill 211, the science of reading, and its application from early childhood development through adulthood. Data on literacy rates and intervention practices were presented, highlighting the need for effective literacy programs and teacher training. Successful school system initiatives and community partnerships were also highlighted, along with plans for future working groups and council meetings.