TO:

Jodi Wendel, Inver Grove Heights Middle School Principal

FROM: Mike LeMier, Teacher

DATE: November 1, 2014

SUBJECT: 6th Grade MMR Data Targets

Data analysis of current Multiple Measurements Rating (MMR) data for 6th grade students
at Inver Grove Heights Middle School shows that Black students did not meet the 2014
target goal of 46.2% proficient in reading. Students proficient measured at 43.8%, which is
2.4% below the state assigned target. As part of the Worlds Best Workforce (2013)
legislation, our goal is to continue to close the achievement gap by at least 50% and for at
least 69.3% of Black students to become proficient in reading by 2017. Additionally, you
asked that I review 6th grade data regarding grades and compare that with MMR data.

Much can be learned from the success of other districts. After completing research on
using data, I have compiled a list of recommendations for improving our scores and getting
students back on track to reach the 2017 goal:

Detect discrepancies in curriculum and grading
Inform professional development choices
Engage parents in the learning of their student(s)

After analysis of the 6th grade grading data and the MMR data, a trend has emerged. Over
55% of our Black 6th grade students over the last 3 years have earned at least one or more
grades of a D+ (69.9%) or below. By using these two date points, we can begin to have 6th
grade teachers reevaluate their curriculum and lessons to see where content area literacy
can be better embedded. Additionally, our schools focus on literacy should begin to focus
more on content literacy and training teachers to ensure reading skills and strategies align
across grade levels. Finally, in conjunction with our PIQE/APP initiatives, we can engage
parents to talk about their students reading scores. In this program, we could also offer
literacy training for parents to increase the school to home partnership as well as reading
proficiency in our students. I think this undertaking would be an appropriate use of time
for 6th grade teachers, especially in conjunction with our schools work with the National
Urban Alliance.

I will be glad to discuss this recommendation with you during our Tuesday morning
Leadership Team meeting and follow through on any decisions you make.

Attached: 6th Grade Grading Data from 2012 2014


6th Grade MMR Data and Targets from 2009 2017


Moving Every Child McKinney, TX Case Study from March 2013