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The Chicago Sun-Times released its top Illinois School rankings on October 31st. Orrington Elementary School (#19), Willard Elementary School (#31) and Haven Middle School (#34) are among the top 50 elementary and middle schools in the Chicagoland area according to the Chicago Sun-Times’ top school rankings released October 31st. These three schools are joined by Nichols Middle School (#93), Dr. Bessie Rhodes Magnet School (#79 in the elementary
rankings), and Dewey Elementary School (#99) ranked among the top 100 schools in the state.
The Chicago Sun-Times’ elementary rankings are based on schools that tested at least two grades from third to fifth. Middle school rankings reflect at least two tested grades sixth through eighth. And, K-8 schools (like Bessie Rhodes) could be ranked among both elementary and middle schools. Learn more at http://fh.suntimes.com/reportcards/
According to the October 31, 2011 Sun-Times article, they base their exclusive rankings of schools on average scores on the state achievement tests in reading and mathematics taken last March. Their rankings are based upon a statistical method called standardizing to analyze the scale score of every reading and math test statewide. This method compares each test score with the state average and creates a school average compared with other schools’ averages.
Orrington School’s Principal, Renaud Beaudoin, was interviewed for an accompanying feature article recognizing the top schools. Orrington ranked #19 among Chicagoland schools and 22 in the statewide comparison.
This is not the first year that District 65 schools are recognized for student achievement. Some schools have been among the top in local media or the Chicago Magazine rankings for a number of years. Several schools have gained recognition as Illinois Honor Roll schools, and many of the district’s schools have shown continuing and improved trends in their student achievement profiles. District 65 also remains at the forefront in areas of achievement reporting. This was acknowledged in a WBEZ report on Monday morning that highlighted the district’s efforts to give its public more information to better assess student academic growth and preparedness for college and careers.
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