Local schools give strong performance on MSA tests

The courses are the same, and all teachers have equal time for planning, but Bowie parents and school staff say that – when it comes to the Maryland School Assessments scores – the difference is strong parental support and the individual attention that students receive.

According to data from the state, Bowie students scored an average of 86 percent proficient or better in reading in the 2008 MSA, and 80.5 percent proficient or better in math. These scores were more than 14 points above the Prince Georges County average for reading and 16 points about the county average for math.

Staff member have to identify when students are struggling, and place them in the right small groups based on their achievement in a particular subject. According to a recent Gazette article, "Kathleen Kurtz, regional assistant superintendent for region four said successful teachers spend time looking at data to ‘create safety nets in order to address the weak areas,’ which could include extra reading or math help for students who need it. Schools also add programs where necessary, and help is often provided by parent volunteers. In Bowie, parents have applied for grant money to put together special events for their children to make up for a lack of regular art, music or language programs."

Good schools, individual attention, and involved parents, are all more reasons for Bowie’s popularity as a place to live and raise a family. If you are ready to make the move to Bowie, the "Special" Ed Haraway team is ready to help you find the right home for your family. We really are the "The Realtors Who Treat You Special!"

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