Math department offers HSA prep

The Mathematics department is offering a preparatory class for students taking the Algebra I High School Assessment (HSA) to ensure that Blair passes the required Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) rate for 2011, which has increased by 8.8 points from last year's rate. The class, which is a continuation of last year's successful course, takes place during fourth period and will run until the HSA takes place in mid-May.

Teachers are using public-released sample tests alongside books and online materials to help students prepare for the reality of the assessment, according to resource teacher Shelly Sherman. "The course is designed to provide extra resources and assistance for students that are struggling or feel they need tutoring," she said.

The HSA is an end-of-course test comprised of four sections: Algebra I, Biology, Englishfre and Government. Students must either pass each section or obtain a combined score of 1,602 to graduate high school.

This year, the AYP pass rate that schools must meet for the Algebra I HSA will be raised to 73.7 percent of students. Sherman acknowledged that the increased percentage may present a challenge for Blair, but remains confident that students will perform to the best of their abilities. "Our goal is to make AYP again," she says. "I expect the pass rate will remain consistent, especially with the continuation of the prep class."

According to Maryland State Department of Education, 92 percent of Blair students scored a proficient grade of 412 points or higher on the Algebra I section in 2010, easily surpassing the AYP pass rate of 64.9 percent. The breakdown of this average indicates that 92 percent of seniors, 93 percent of juniors and 91.4 percent of sophomores met Algebra I requirements.

To see more statistics concerning Blair's performance on the four HSA subject tests, visit this website.