The new state testing numbers are in and Biloxi is an A-rated school district and the No. 3-ranked in the state.
“This is outstanding news for our teachers, our principals, our parents, and, of course, our students,” Biloxi Superintendent Arthur McMillan said of the state’s accountability results, which were released this morning. “These impressive scores are the result of a lot of hard work and dedication. They show that if you work hard and put your mind to a task, you can achieve great things. We have achieved great things.”
Four Biloxi schools – Biloxi High, Biloxi Junior High, Jeff Davis Elementary and North Bay – scored an A by attaining more than 200 on their QDI or quality of distribution index, which is primarily a measurement of academic achievement using test scores and growth rates.
Two other schools, Gorenflo and Popp’s Ferry, earned Bs.
“These scores are not just something that happened,” McMillan said. “We had instances last year where teachers came in on Saturday mornings to help students. Seniors helped tutor other students. Both teachers and students worked after hours to make this happen. There was support from parents and administrators. It was a true team effort.
“These are the kinds of things that make a community proud.”
McMillan noted that “every single school in the district met growth, and today that’s what you’re measured on, whether you are growing in your knowledge. Our students are growing.”
In state rankings, Pass Christian finished first, while Biloxi was third. The only other Coast schools in the state’s Top 20 were Long Beach and Ocean Springs (tied at No. 13), and Hancock (No. 20).
To see the scores and information for individual Biloxi schools, click here.
Advance tickets available now for tonight’s Oak Grove game
Attention Indians fans: Avoid the lines at tonight’s Oak Grove game by buying your tickets now.
Because of expected crowds and advance inquiries, the Biloxi High Athletic Department is offering advance adult ticket sales now through 3:30 this afternoon.
Drop by the athletic office on the Biloxi High campus, or call Susie Seymour in the athletic office at (228) 435-6310 to make arrangements.
City to dedicate Barhanovich park Saturday morning
Friends and family of the late businessman Mark Barhanovich will gather to unveil a marker Saturday morning at 9 for the dedication of Mark Barhanovich Memorial Park on Back Bay in Biloxi.
The park, formerly known as Circle Park or Bay Terrace Park, will be dedicated to the popular Biloxi businessman who died in a boating accident a year ago Monday.
The public is invited to the dedication and unveiling of the marker, and to a reception that will be held afterward. The park is on Porter Avenue, a few blocks south of the bay.