Students demonstrate SuccessMaker, a reading software program, for their parents during Come Read with Me. 
Weston Shirk, Davis 4th grader, reads to his mother during Come Read with Me. 
David Ford, elementary counselor, portrays the Wizard of Wisdom and gives Barb Van Ersvelde who is portraying the lion, advice for taking the ITBS tests.Davis Plans for Success
Davis Elementary was designated a School in Need of Assistance (SINA) for this school year as a result of ITBS scores. Students and teachers have been working to implement changes as detailed in our School In Need of Assistance action plan. Actions include teachers carefully analyzing student Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) test results and targeting instruction for individual students based on the student’s test results. Students and parents have learned about the MAP test results and the low and high areas for each student. Students are regularly using the SuccessMaker reading software program for additional practice on reading skills. The elementary guidance counselors have taught guidance lessons focused on academic success and test taking skills to all third and fourth graders as well as teaching additional lessons on test taking skills to small groups of students during lunchtimes. Davis teachers performed a skit to help the students prepare for the ITBS tests and the Davis Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) provided snacks during the ITBS tests.
Another fun learning activity that was part of our action plan was our Come Read with Me night on March 7. Over 400 free meals were served during the event. The Drake Library provided information on their programs, students demonstrated reading strategies for their parents, families created posters for their favorite books, and computer programs were shown to families. Grinnell College basketball players were guest readers for the event and high school students and other community members volunteered to help with the activities. Prizes, including a kindle and gift card, were awarded for students who participated in the activities. It was a very successful evening and one we think made a difference for our students. We are currently waiting for the results of this year’s ITBS tests to see how our efforts have paid off.
