Ackerman responds to falling test scores

Ackerman Response

This is the complete statement from former Superintendent Arlene Ackerman on the decline in test scores in Philadelphia:

"I am saddened to learn that the test scores have dropped this year. During my tenure as superintendent, millions of dollars and resources were reallocated directly to the schools. Class sizes were significantly reduced; new curriculum and intervention materials were introduced in our lowest-performing schools, as well as there was a reduction in the ratio between counselors and nurses. Parent ombudsmen and social workers were used to address the social, emotional, and mental-health needs of students and their families so that teachers could focus on teaching and learning. In many of our schools, teacher coaches were added to visit classrooms and work directly with teachers and principals to improve instructional practices. We expanded music and art and put in place an extraordinarily successful summer school with intervention and accelerated programs for more than 40,000 students. It increased graduation rates by more than 6%. These are all research-based strategies that are proven to raise achievement. I understand that almost none of these programs are currently in place due to budget cuts? Is there a surprise that student achievement  has suffered?

On the possible cheating investigation, let me be very clear, there is never an excuse for cheating. In the end, the students suffer. Whenever allegations of cheating were brought to my attention, there was an immediate investigation by the Accountability Office. If the allegations were proven to be true, the adult employees involved were reprimanded and different protocols were put in place at the school the following year. I am hopeful the possible cheating allegations will be proven to be false, because one classroom or one school involved in cheating is one too many."