CEA Steering Committee

Topic:
Work with representatives of NorthStar (Pearson) to link Curriculum Standards and Student Achievement Standards.

Meeting Date and Time:  December 15, 2011, 12 to 2 pm

Present:    Dante Ferraro, President Spanish-American Institute
                Regina Snyder, North East District Manager - Pearson
                Lynn Napolitano, English Language Specialist - Pearson
                Christina Cavage, Author (Expert on NorthStar and Its Technology)

Minutes:

General Discussion:  Identify the resources available within NorthStar to strengthen the process that ensures students are ready to progress to the next level or to exit the program of study.

NorthStar’s Available Technology:  Pearson representatives explained that at the end of each level’s unit there is an assessment test. Assessments instruments are either paper-based or included in NorthStar’s online resource entitled “My Lab.” A performance assessment at the end of each level is not available. Pearson reps offered to customize such an assessment under the expertise of Ms. Cavage.

The balance of the meeting focused on Pearson’s “My Lab.” Access to this resource is through a code provided when students purchase their textbooks. A Student Profile is set up on the Pearson database. As students complete assignments and take tests online, their progress is recorded and maintained under their profile. This profile will serve as documentation of each student’s progress, as well as the means to determine when a student is prepared to move to the next level.

The discussion on “My Lab” concluded with an agreement to learn more about this process and how to will strengthen both the Curriculum and the ability to measure Student Achievement at The Institute.

Next Steps:  There are two stages that will take place to ensure a smooth implementation:

  1. Demonstration of “MyLab.” Pearson will set up webinar on Wednesday, 28 December 2011. Members of the Curriculum and Students Achievement Committee and the Steering Committee will participate.
  2. Beta Test “My Lab” with two levels of NorthStar and several classes and teachers. This will take place the second week of January 2012.