Port Arthur ISD presents diagnostic gains and STAR interim projections; comprehension and vocabulary remain weakest areas

District staff presented diagnostic and STAR interim results showing pockets of growth alongside continued gaps in vocabulary and comprehension.

Dr. Maya Turner reported year‑to‑date diagnostic changes: students who had been three or more grade levels below showed reductions in that category, two‑grade‑level deficits fell from 24% to 17%, and overall about 19% of students demonstrated growth in reading on I‑Read diagnostics. Math diagnostics showed similar patterns, with roughly 17% of students showing growth. Dr. Turner said campus median growth measures indicate most campuses are making measurable gains even where baseline proficiency remains low.

For STAR interim projections the district presented projected percentages of students meeting or exceeding passing thresholds if current learning trends hold: third grade a little over 50% projected to receive credit; fourth grade 49.1%; fifth grade 56.1%; sixth grade 54.7%; seventh grade 52.2%; eighth grade 59.6%; English I 54.5%; and English II 45.7%. Dr. Turner cautioned that the STAR interim is optional and projects student outcomes "if all variables essentially stay the same."

Trustees asked how campus teams and teachers are using diagnostic lists. Dr. Turner said data are available at the student level, that she has visited campuses and worked with PLCs and teachers to identify students for targeted support, and that the district is also emphasizing advancement for students who have mastered content. She said Tail Pass testing will continue through March 27 and the first STAR administration for RLA third grade through English I is scheduled for April 8.

The presentation concluded with campus‑level reports scheduled to guide targeted instruction, summer planning, and campus supports; trustees commended Dr. Turner’s approach and the district’s push to provide individualized campus reports.