The Jamison students continue to do well on the PSSA standardized tests.  These assessments are used by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to measure student achievement in all public schools across the state.  The results of the PSSA tests are summarized and reported in order to meet the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.  The attached NCLB Report Card summarizes the proficiency levels of our students in reading and mathematics. 

           While these tests are an important indicator of student performance, they do not tell the entire story about our students.  Test scores are only one indication of the performance of our students.  If one were to visit Jamison classrooms he/she would be impressed with the students as learners.  As I reflect on the daily performance of our students, a few key “Points of Pride” come to mind: 

·        Students who love to read and write. 

The students are participating in the “25 Book Challenge”.  Each Jamison student is reading and recording 25 books.  Enthusiastic students are reaching the 50 and 75 book benchmark.  The writing program begins in kindergarten with students maintaining writing journals.  In addition to writing to a prompt, the students develop personal journals, reflections of their reading, and stories which they learn to write in their “own voice”.   

·        Students who are strong in technology and in presentation skills. 

Each year the students use the computer to help them research, write, and deliver a presentation to their peers.  This begins in kindergarten and becomes more sophisticated each school year.  Every sixth grade student is capable of researching, writing, and presenting information on a topic in which they use PowerPoint and the Smart Board. 

Utilizing the school’s presentation stations, a wide variety of technology is implemented into classroom instruction.  Jamison continues to keep students engaged in their learning in a variety of ways from Podcasting to creating classroom videos.

·        Students who care about others by working in many capacities to contribute to our society. 

Our students participate annually in the Jump Rope for Heart.  Jumping rope allows the students to exercise as well as raise money for the American Heart Association.  In addition, students raised money for the Woman’s Shelter by predicting when the first snow would take place.

Students and staff members are participating in a wellness program.  All members of the Jamison community are making an effort to exercise, eat right, and balance their life.  Nutrition Education Day allows students to learn and participate in lessons that are life long learning experiences.  The students are participating in a walking club.  They can earn a key chain and “feet” for recording their mileage around the perimeter of the playground.  The staff participates in the program by exercising, attending wellness seminars, monitoring their blood pressure and weight.  As a result of this program, one can observe a positive attitude and achievement.

          
          I would like to thank the parents and the Central Bucks community for providing support to Jamison Elementary School.  Please click the link below to review the PSSA test summaries that make our school’s NCLB Report Card.