South Florida Schools Earn "A" Grades as State Prepares for New Grading System with Focus on Student Success Factors

Friday, July 11, 2014

DOE Press Office 850-245-0413

South Florida Schools Earn "A" Grades as State Prepares for New Grading System with Focus on Student Success Factors

Tallahassee, Fla., July 11, 2014 - The number of elementary and middle schools earning a preliminary "A" grade increased by 195 (7 percentage points) over last year in the final year of the current grading system, according to preliminary data released today by the Department of Education. Overall, 962 elementary and middle schools statewide earned the top grade.

The number of schools earning a preliminary "F" grade this year also increased. The Department is focused on ensuring all low performing schools are provided the necessary assistance and support they need to help their students achieve.

"The increase in the number of schools earning an 'A' this year is great news for students and teachers who have worked hard for this success," said Commissioner of education Pam Stewart. "I appreciate the work by the educators, students and their families in the Big Bend and know they will continue to improve in the future."

Highlights in South Florida include:

• Miami-Dade County increased the number of elementary and middle schools earning a preliminary grade of "A" by 30 schools in 2013-14, with 43 percent of Miami-Dade County schools now earning an "A" compared to 35 percent in 2012-13. In addition, 22 Miami-Dade County schools improved two or more letter grades between 2012-13 and 2013-14, including four schools that improved from a "D" to an "A" and two schools that improved from an "F" to a "B."
• Broward County increased the number of elementary and middle schools earning a preliminary grade of "A" by 16 schools in 2013-14, with 34 percent of Broward County schools now earning an "A" compared to 28 percent in 2012-13. In addition, nine Broward County schools improved two or more letter grades between 2012-13 and 2013-14.

This is the final year school grades will be calculated using the current formula. The new grading system next year will support the more rigorous Florida Standards and the Florida Standards Assessment which will replace the FCAT. The new school grading formula will be more simple and transparent.

"The new grading system that will start next year will continue to be crafted with input from parents, teachers and educators," added Stewart. "Its focus on student achievement and gains will help ensure a fair accountability system that helps measure student knowledge of the new Florida Standards."

More information can be found at School Grades.