Closing the Learning Gap: Steps That Work

This webinar was presented on Dec 3, 2008 and is now archived

Presenters

Joe Medina (Primary)

Principal
Torch Middle School


Robert Reyes (Primary)

Assistant Principal
Torch Middle School


Mette Huberman

Senior Research Analyst
American Institutes for Research (AIR)


Description

Torch Middle School in Los Angeles County, California serves a high poverty, high minority student population that performs well above its peers and has received a “similar schools ranking” of 10 (on a 10-point scale) on the California Academic Performance Index (API) for the past two years. In 2007, Torch was recognized as one of only three California Schools to Watch. While 31% of 8th grade Hispanic students scored proficient or above statewide, 54% of Hispanic 8th grade students at Torch scored proficient or above. Principal Joe Medina and Assistant Principal Robert Reyes will share the actual steps they have taken in moving the school from a decile 1 state ranking in 2000 to a decile 6 state ranking in 2007. This webinar is presented by the American Institutes for Research and WestEd as partners in the California Comprehensive Center to highlight high performing schools making a difference in student achievement. To learn more about Torch, please read the school profile.

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