Camelot accelerated school students record multi-grade level improvements in reading and math Students at one site increased math scores by four grade levels
(Philadelphia – July 20, 2012)
Camelot’s “accelerated” high schools are living up to their name. Look at 2011-2012 school year math and reading test results for proof.
The most impressive gain came in math testing at Excel Academy North where the average student raised his or her math grade level by 4.1 years. Overall, 77% of students’ scores rose by at least two grade levels.
Reading scores at Excel Academy North (6600 Bustleton Ave.) were almost as impressive, with the average student gaining 3.6 grade levels and 71% improving by at least two grade levels.
“We are on the one hand blown away by these results, but we also see the evolution in these kids every day. They come to us with tremendous untapped potential and we provide a climate that allows them to find it,” said Camelot Vice President for Education Milton Alexander.
At Excel Academy South (4641 Roosevelt Blvd.), the average student’s math score rose by 2.5 grade levels while reading scores increased by 2.4 grade levels.
“The results are truly remarkable when you consider most of these kids had given up on succeeding in school. Our accelerated model is aimed at guiding these students toward a meaningful diploma so that they are equipped to handle the rigors of college or technical school,” Alexander said.
Camelot teaches the School District of Philadelphia curriculum, but uses a structured system in which students earn more privileges as they improve their academic and leadership performance.
Camelot employs a teaching model developed specifically to engage dropouts and over-age students by Massachusetts-based Jobs for the Future (JFF). In fact, JFF is now using Excel South as a laboratory to test and refine its techniques. Camelot and JFF have made the following observations working with
second-chance students:
o Off-track students with large and varied gaps in their learning benefit from teaching one another.
o Students who were previously held to low expectations can quickly learn to take academic initiative.
o When students are engaged in and responsible for their learning, behavior problems decrease dramatically.
o When students are fully engaged, schools can reallocate staff to instruction (instead of discipline).
o Through collaborative learning, formerly out-of-school youth can build the social skills needed for success in college and the workplace.
In the most recent graduating class, both Excel Academy North and Excel Academy South reported graduation rates over 90% with most students moving ahead to post-secondary education.
“The Philadelphia School District has been looking for ways to increase its graduation rate and decrease the drop-out rate. We are proud to be working with JFF, the Philadelphia Youth Network and the district’s Office of Multiple Pathways to implement educational approaches that make Camelot part of the solution,” said Camelot CEO Todd Bock.
