RBUSD Posts Gains on API Scores

The Academic Performance Index score for public schools in Redondo Beach—summarizing students' performance on a series of tests—rose by 18 points in 2011-12, outpacing gains made by students across the state.

The district's score went from 873 last year to 891. The statewide API score increased by 10 points, from 778 last year to 788, according to figures released Thursday by the California Department of Education.

The scores range from 200 to 1,000, with a performance target of 800.

All schools that received API scores in Redondo Beach Unified School District exceeded the 800-point benchmark, and of those, only Redondo Union High School and Redondo Shores High School missed the 900-point mark with scores of 856 and 556, respectively.

The majority of the schools posted double-digit gains, with Madison Elementary's 31-point increase the largest in the district.

Jefferson Elementary School saw its score drop by two points, though it still earned a highly respectable 941. Redondo Shores' numbers saw no change.

Because it's a small continuation school, Redondo Shores' numbers are "less reliable," according to the Department of Education.

With a score of 952, Beryl Heights Elementary School earned the highest score in the district.

Adams Middle School in North Redondo Beach did not receive a score due to some testing irregularities by a teacher, according to district officials. The teacher is no longer with the district.

"Obviously, the Adams situation is a disappointment," Assistant Superintendent Annette Alpern told the Daily Breeze. "I feel strongly the actions of one teacher shouldn't overshadow the work of hundreds of teachers that work hard day in, day out. These are the best scores we've ever had in our district."

According to the state, 53 percent of California schools met or exceeded the 800-point bar in 2011-12, up four percentage points from the previous year.

API reflects growth in student achievement from one year to the next. It is determined by results on the California Standards Tests in English, math, history/social science and science, and the California High School Exit Exam.

"We've set a high bar for schools and they have more than met the challenge, despite the enormous obstacles that years of budget cuts have put in their way," state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson said. "The incredible efforts of teachers, administrators, school employees, parents and students should serve as an inspiration to us all. While there's still more work to do, California's schools have earned a vote of confidence."

Statewide, 59 percent of elementary schools, 49 percent of middle schools and 30 percent of high schools met the state API benchmark.

Elementary school scores statewide increased by 7 points to 815, while middle schools jumped 14 points to 792 and high schools increased 11 points to 752.

—City News Service contributed to this report.