The Nevada School Performance Framework (NSPF) rated Spring Valley High School a four-star rating on September 19th, the highest rating the school has received since its founding in 2004.
Schools in the state of Nevada are measured on a one to five star-rating system, with five stars being the highest rating one could achieve. The system has five indicators, which are composed of different academic and non-academic measures. Schools receive points in each of these indicators based on student performance. Points are then added together to produce an overall score for each school.
Spring Valley scored a total index score of 80 points, which is two points shy away from being rated five stars. Though despite just missing the mark, the current rating is recognized as a great achievement.
“It shows that our teachers and our kids are working hard,” said Principal Tara Powell. “Our staff and our students are showing dedication every day.”
In the 2020-2021 school year, the school was rated three stars by the NSPF. According to the recent NSPF report, Spring Valley, with a new four star rating, is recognized as a “commendable school that has performed well for all students and subgroups.”
“To move that much in an academic year means there’s been a systematic change in a school,” Powell said. “We are intentional about our instruction.”
Administrators have focused on the method of a Professional Learning Community, commonly known as PLC, to foster the development of lesson plans to further enhance student learning and success.
“Two years ago, we implemented a better math curriculum, and it is English this year,” Powell said. “[PLC] is a back path method where teachers are taking rigorous exams and working backwards to develop lesson plans and grow our students’ achievement.”
As detailed in the NSPF report, the school has performed above the state average at every indicator. Graduation rates have maxed at 30/30 points under its indicator, and students who are college and career ready are marked with a total of 22.5/25 points.
Powell said that Spring Valley is making sure students are proficient in all literacy, math, thinking and collaboration skills that are needed for life after secondary education.
“I know it’s cheesy, but [students] are the future,” Powell said. “We have to take onus of that. I don’t think that as a community of Vegas that have, and finally, we are.”
The administration has recognized the effort of teachers and staff to improve student education and support both academically and emotionally.
“[The rating] tells people that we are a great school and that we are on our way to five stars next year,” Powell said.
