The principals of the five Falls Church City Public Schools campuses came together at a work session of the Falls Church School Board Tuesday night to give reports on early enrollment numbers (the biggest news, all up sharply), as well as some SOL and other test comparisons (all very high) and objectives for the coming year above and beyond excellent classroom education.
George Mason High School’s new principal Matt Hills reported that enrollment as of today is at 821, up almost 100 from this time three years ago, and noted that in addition to a 100 percent graduation rate, over 91 percent of seniors are enrolled in at least one Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or Dual Enrollment,class, and 83 percent of those in grades 10-12. Mary Ellen Henderson principal Ty Harris reported an attendance of 591 as of today, and that reading scores for ESOL students are 10 to 20 points above the state SOL average. Engagement, he noted, will include an MEH Faculty Vs/ Rec Center Staff basketball game Oct. 14.
Thomas Jefferson Elementary’s new principal Paul Swanson reported enrollment at 823 students, up from 707 three years ago, and said that a major challenge there is to raise the English proficiency rankings of the school’s economically disadvantaged students, which are currently below the state average (very unique for Falls Church schools). Those students represent almost 10 percent of the student body. He added that based on the spring’s “climate survey” results, another challenge being addressed is to “revitalize the culture and communication” at the school. He noted the campus is almost at full capacity now.
Mt. Daniel Elementary’s new principal Erin Kelly reported attendance at 392 today, up from 346 last year, and cited good results in the Developmental Reading Assessment, Phonological Awareness Literacy Screens,and STAR Early Literacy, Math and Reading results. Summer school increased STAR reading results in 85% of the students. Jessie Thackrey Preschool principal Elizabeth Germer cited enrollment at 73 this year compared to 56 last year, including nine two-year olds compared to one a year ago.