School Accountability Report Card
Reported for School Year 2008-09
Published During 2009-10

Executive Summary School Accountability Report Card, 2008-09

Ralston Intermediate School

Address:  2675 Ralston Ave. , Belmont   CA  94002-1216  Phone:  650-637-4880 
Principal:  Jennifer  Kollmann  Grade Span:  6 - 8 

This executive summary of the School Accountability Report Card (SARC) is intended to provide parents and community members with a quick snapshot of school accountability. The data presented in this report are reported for the 2008-09 school year, except the School Finances and School Completion data that are reported for the 2007-08 school year. For additional information about the school, parents and community members should review the entire SARC or contact the school principal or the district office. 

About This School 

Ralston Middle School is the cornerstone of the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District. Five elementary schools send their students to Ralston and, as a result, the student body is a true reflection of the diversity of this small mid-Peninsula community. With 807 students in the 6th, 7th and 8th grades, Ralston teaches students with a wide range of ability who represent a wonderful spectrum of cultures and nationalities.

Student Enrollment 

Group  Percent 
African American  2.85 % 
American Indian or Alaska Native  % 
Asian  19.35 % 
Filipino  3.10 % 
Hispanic or Latino  8.44 % 
Pacific Islander  1.49 % 
White (not Hispanic)  55.83 % 
Multiple or No Response  8.93 % 
Socioeconomically Disadvantaged  3.00 % 
English Learners  4.00 % 
Students with Disabilities  15.00 % 
Total Number of Students  806 

Teachers 

Indicator  Teachers 
Teachers with full credential  36 
Teachers without full credential  0 
Teachers Teaching Outside Subject Area of Competence  0
Misassignments of Teachers of English Learners  0
Total Teacher Misassignments   6

Student Performance 

Subject  Students Proficient and Above on California Standards Tests 
English-Language Arts  80%
Mathematics  71%
Science  80%
History-Social Science  64%

Academic Progress 

Indicator  Result 
2009 Growth API Score (from 2009 Growth API Report)  900  
Statewide Rank (from 2008 Base API Report)  9  
2009-10 Program Improvement Status (PI Year)  N/A

School Facilities 

Summary of Most Recent Site Inspection 

Ralston Middle School has regular fire and safety inspections by the Belmont San Carlos Fire Department and health inspections by the San Mateo County Health Department. We welcome their input and implement their suggestions.

Cleaning Standards: The District has adopted cleaning standards for each school, and a copy of these is available in the principal’s office. The principal works daily with the custodial staff to develop and implement cleaning practices that ensure a clean and safe school campus.

Maintenance and Repair: District maintenance staff, assisted as necessary by outside contractors, keeps the school in good repair. Work orders are completed in a timely manner, and tracked on a computerized system of record keeping, which also allows priority to be assigned to emergency repairs.

Repairs Needed 

Roof areas show some wear and damage and need replacement.

Corrective Actions Taken or Planned 

The electrical cage was completely replaced in the summer of 2008. The roofs will be replaced in the future.

Curriculum and Instructional Materials 

Core Curriculum Areas  Pupils Who Lack Textbooks and Instructional Materials 
Reading/Language Arts  0%
Mathematics  0%
Science  0%
History-Social Science  0%
Foreign Language  N/A
Health  0%
Visual and Performing Arts  N/A

School Finances 

Level  Expenditures Per Pupil (Unrestricted Sources Only) 
School Site  $5,196
District  $5,615
State  $5,512

School Completion  

Indicator   Result  
Graduation Rate  %100 

NAEP Reading, Grade 8 

Level  Result 
Average Scale Score - State  251 
Average Scale Score - National  261 
Achievement Level - Basic   41%
Achievement Level - Proficient   20%
Achievement Level - Advanced   2%

NAEP Mathematics, Grade 8 

Level  Result 
Average Scale Score - State  270 
Average Scale Score - National  282 
Achievement Level - Basic   59%
Achievement Level - Proficient   23%
Achievement Level - Advanced   5%

School Accountability Report Card Reported for School Year 2008-09 Published During 2009-10

The School Accountability Report Card (SARC), which is required by law to be published annually, contains information about the condition and performance of each California public school. More information about SARC requirements is available on the California Department of Education (CDE) SARC Web page. For additional information about the school, parents and community members should contact the school principal or the district office.

I. Data and Access 

DataQuest 

DataQuest is an online data tool located on the CDE DataQuest Web page that contains additional information about this school and comparisons of the school to the district, the county, and the state. Specifically, DataQuest is a dynamic system that provides reports for accountability (e.g., Academic Performance Index [API], Adequate Yearly Progress [AYP]), test data, enrollment, graduates, dropouts, course enrollments, staffing, and data regarding English learners). 

Internet Access 

Internet access is available at public libraries and other locations that are publicly accessible (e.g., the California State Library). Access to the Internet at libraries and public locations is generally provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Other use restrictions include the hours of operation, the length of time that a workstation may be used (depending on availability), the types of software programs available on a workstation, and the ability to print documents.  

II. About This School 

Contact Information (School Year 2009-10) 

This section provides the schools contact information.
School  District 
School Name  Ralston Intermediate   District Name  Belmont-Redwood Shores Elementary  
Street  2675 Ralston Ave.   Phone Number  650-637-4800 
City, State, Zip  Belmont  , CA  94002-1216  Web Site  ralston.brssd.org 
Phone Number  650-637-4880  Superintendent  Emerita  Orta-Camilleri 
Principal  Jennifer  Kollmann  E-mail Address  eorta-camilleri@brssd.org 
E-mail Address  jkollmann@brssd.org  CDS Code 41- 68866- 6043483 

School Description and Mission Statement (School Year 2008-09) 

This section provides information about the school, its programs and its goals.
The School Community
Ralston Middle School, located in the City of Belmont on the peninsula south of San Francisco, is the only middle school in the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District. Students in 8th grade are promoted to the Sequoia Union High School District. Most of the students from Ralston attend Carlmont High School, although some go on to private high schools or other high schools in the Sequoia High School district.

The Ralston School community consists of families for whom education is a priority. The school is the hub of the community for many of these parents. Families enthusiastically support the Parent Teacher Association, School Site Council, School Force and countless volunteer activities and projects.

Mission and Goals
Ralston Middle School provides a highly academic and nurturing environment where all students, parents and staff pursue academic excellence and participate fully in the life of the school. The Ralston School Mission Statement, developed by staff, parents and student representatives to our School Site Council, serves as a framework for our school’s goals and priorities. This spirit of partnership pervades all that we do at Ralston.

Ralston’s primary mission is to provide a challenging instructional program that focuses on the diverse needs of middle school students. Together, as a staff and community, we have the capacity to present academic programs that are rich and compelling, supported by the structure of California State Content Standards, and the resources necessary to create student-centered classrooms. Students are engaged in a highly creative elective program that provides enrichment opportunities for all levels of learners. In addition, Ralston students score in the 90th percentile for fitness, far surpassing the average score in California.

Ralston School is characterized by:

  • A safe, orderly, attractive campus
  • A rigorous academic core curriculum
  • A rich elective program
  • A strong student support system
  • A wide range of extracurricular activities
  • A firm commitment to technology in the classroom
  • A dedicated and competent professional staff
  • A supportive and involved parent community
  • An energetic, enthusiastic, and highly capable student body
  • A deep commitment to community service

Opportunities for Parental Involvement (School Year 2008-09) 

This section provides information about opportunities for parents to become involved with school activities.
  • After School Clubs
  • Assemblies
  • Classroom field trips
  • 8th grade graduation party
  • Hot Lunch Program
  • Magazine Drive
  • Monetary gifts
  • Multicultural Fair
  • Music Boosters
  • Parent Education
  • Program Development
  • Safety Committee
  • School Dances
  • School Force
  • Spring Fling
  • Technology assistance

Student Enrollment by Grade Level (School Year 2008-09) 

This table displays the number of students enrolled in each grade level at the school. 

Grade Level  Number of Students 
Grade 6  269 
Grade 7  264 
Grade 8  273 
Total Enrollment  806 

Student Enrollment by Group (School Year 2008-09) 

This table displays the percent of students enrolled at the school who are identified as being in a particular group. 

Group  Percent of Total Enrollment 
African American  2.85 % 
American Indian or Alaska Native  % 
Asian  19.35 % 
Filipino  3.10 % 
Hispanic or Latino  8.44 % 
Pacific Islander  1.49 % 
White (not Hispanic)  55.83 % 
Multiple or No Response  8.93 % 
Socioeconomically Disadvantaged  3.00 % 
English Learners  4.00 % 
Students with Disabilities  15.00 % 

Average Class Size and Class Size Distribution (Secondary) 

This table displays by subject area the average class size and the number of classrooms that fall into each size category (a range of total students per classroom). 
Subject  2006-07  2007-08  2008-09 
Avg. Class Size  Number of Classrooms  Avg. Class Size  Number of Classrooms  Avg. Class Size  Number of Classrooms 
1-22  23-32  33+  1-22  23-32  33+  1-22  23-32  33+ 
English  24.9  12  33    26.2  7  29  2  24.6  12  27  2 
Mathematics  25.7  7  20  2  27.1  2  24  1  26.1  3  27  1 
Science  26.3  1  29    26.4  3  25    26.2  3  27   
Social Science  26.7  1  28    25.9  2  28    26.7  4  27   

III. School Climate 

School Safety Plan (School Year 2008-09) 

This section provides information about the school's comprehensive safety plan. 

In order to provide students with a safe school that maintains a positive climate for learning, Ralston Middle School staff has a multifaceted approach to safety.

The Board of Trustees Board Policy requires the school to maintain an updated Disaster Preparedness plan, which covers emergencies such as earthquakes, fire, bomb threats, or other disturbances. The plan includes emergency phone numbers, roles for staff members, and procedures to ensure student safety. An outbuilding, which contains emergency supplies, has been equipped and is maintained yearly by the PTA. Ralston staff members participate in the Belmont Safe Schools program and (School Safety Committee), attend meetings and take part in simulations to develop and to keep our safety plans current. A School Resource Officer from the Belmont Police Department works with the school's administration to maintain a safe and secure campus. Emergency Response lists and Emergency phone trees are updated yearly.

Students are advised of the policies regarding Sexual Harassment, bullying and cyber bullying. Staff members regularly address issues of concern about school safety and are proactive in addressing all types of bullying. A large group of students and staff members are trained yearly through the Safe Schools Ambassadors program. This program helps all students understand and value a variety of cultures and empower students to make positive choices.

Suspensions and Expulsions 

This table displays the rate of suspensions and expulsions (the total number of incidents divided by the total enrollment) at the school and district levels for the most recent three-year period. 

Rate  School  District 
2006-07  2007-08  2008-09  2006-07  2007-08  2008-09 
Suspensions  12.4   15.4   23.1   4.3   4.7   7.3  
Expulsions  0.1   0.5   0.1   0.0   0.2   0.0  

IV. School Facilities 

School Facility Conditions and Planned Improvements (School Year 2009-10) 

This section provides information about the condition of the school’s grounds, buildings, and restrooms, and a description of any planned or recently completed facility improvements. 

Age of Buildings: This school has 46 classrooms, 2 music rooms, a library, a multipurpose room, a gymnasium, girls’ and boys’ locker rooms, and administrative offices. The main buildings were constructed in 1954, and modernized in 2003. Four portable classrooms were installed on the campus in 2000.

Cleaning Standards: The District has adopted cleaning standards for each school, and a copy of these is available in the principal’s office. The principal works daily with the custodial staff to develop and implement cleaning practices that ensure a clean and safe school campus.

Maintenance and Repair: District maintenance staff, assisted as necessary by outside contractors, keeps the school in good repair. Work orders are completed in a timely manner, and tracked on a computerized system of record keeping, which also allows priority to be assigned to emergency repairs.

Complaints and Reports of Conditions Requiring Remedy: Each classroom contains a notice regarding the availability of complaint or report of unsafe condition forms, which can be found in the principal’s office. The District uses the Uniform Complaint Process (per Board Policy) in responding to all filed complaints.

Of the 46 classrooms at Ralston during the 2008-2009 school year, 34 classrooms were used for regular instruction. Specialized classrooms are available for science, computer labs, animation, industrial technology, culinary arts, and music. In addition, there are two Science buildings that house labs for 7th and 8th grades, and a large school gymnasium.

Every classroom has at least one computer connected to the Internet. The library is equipped with 7computers with Internet access for student and teacher use. Three classrooms are equipped as multimedia classrooms. The PTA purchased interactive SMARTBoards, LCD projectors and numerous additional computers and printers. There are two full time computer labs with over 25 computers in each room.

During the summer of 2008, the music buildings were completely renovated with HVAC and acoustical enhancements. The Multi purpose room was equipped with a new ADA compliant elevator chair lift. All lunch tables were replaced with new safe pullout tables in the Multi purpose room. The interior of the hallways were painted, and approximately 10 classrooms received new carpeting, The electrical cage in the courtyard was completely replaced in the summer of 2008.

School Facility Good Repair Status (School Year 2009-10) 

This table displays the results of the most recently completed school site inspection to determine the school facility’s good repair status. 

Item Inspected  Repair Status  Repair Needed and Action Taken or Planned 
Exemplary  Good  Fair  Poor 
Systems: Gas Leaks, Mechanical/HVAC, Sewer 
N/A
X
 
Interior: Interior Surfaces 
N/A
X
 
Cleanliness: Overall Cleanliness, Pest/ Vermin Infestation 
N/A
X
 
Electrical: Electrical 
N/A
X
 
Restrooms/Fountains: Restrooms, Sinks/ Fountains 
N/A
X
 
Safety: Fire Safety, Hazardous Materials 
N/A
X
 
Structural: Structural Damage, Roofs 
N/A
X
Needs repair in the near future
External: Playground/School Grounds, Windows/ Doors/Gates/Fences 
N/A
X
 
Overall Rating 
N/A
X
N/A

V. Teachers 

Teacher Credentials 

This table displays the number of teachers assigned to the school with a full credential, without a full credential, and those teaching outside of their subject area of competence. Detailed information about teacher qualifications can be found on the CDE DataQuest Web page. 

Teachers  School  District 
2006-07  2007-08  2008-09  2008-09 
With Full Credential  38  34  36  145 
Without Full Credential  0  0  0  2 
Teaching Outside Subject Area of Competence  5 8 6 N/A 

Teacher Misassignments and Vacant Teacher Positions 

This table displays the number of teacher misassignments (teachers assigned without proper legal authorization) and the number of vacant teacher positions (not filled by a single designated teacher assigned to teach the entire course at the beginning of the school year or semester). Note: Total Teacher Misassignments includes the number of Misassignments of Teachers of English Learners. 

Indicator  2007-08  2008-09  2009-10 
Misassignments of Teachers of English Learners  
0
0
0
Total Teacher Misassignments  
0
0
6
Vacant Teacher Positions 
0
0
0

Core Academic Classes Taught by No Child Left Behind Compliant Teachers (School Year 2008-09) 

This table displays the percent of classes in core academic subjects taught by No Child Left Behind (NCLB) compliant and non-NCLB compliant teachers in the school, in all schools in the district, in high-poverty schools in the district, and in low-poverty schools in the district. High poverty schools are defined as those schools with student participation of approximately 75 percent or more in the free and reduced price meals program. Low poverty schools are those with student participation of approximately 25 percent or less in the free and reduced price meals program. More information on teacher qualifications required under NCLB can be found on the CDE Improving Teacher and Principal Quality Web page. 

Location of Classes  Percent of Classes In Core Academic Subjects 
Taught by NCLB Compliant Teachers  Taught by Non-NCLB Compliant Teachers 
This School   97.0  3.0 
All Schools in District   97.6  2.4 
High-Poverty Schools in District  N/A N/A
Low-Poverty Schools in District  97.6  2.4 

VI. Support Staff 

Academic Counselors and Other Support Staff (School Year 2008-09) 

This table displays, in units of full-time equivalents (FTE), the number of academic counselors and other support staff who are assigned to the school and the average number of students per academic counselor. One FTE equals one staff member working full time; one FTE could also represent two staff members who each work 50 percent of full time. 

Title  Number of FTE Assigned to School  Average Number of Students per Academic Counselor 
Academic Counselor 
1.0 
806 
Library Media Specialist
.8750 
N/A 
Psychologist 
.6 
N/A 
Social Worker 
 
N/A 
Nurse 
 
N/A 
Speech/Language/Hearing Specialist 
1.0 
N/A 
Resource Specialist (non-teaching) 
2.0 
N/A 
Other 
 
 

VII. Curriculum and Instructional Materials 

Quality, Currency, Availability of Textbooks and Instructional Materials (School Year 2009-10) 

This table displays information about the quality, currency, and availability of the standards-aligned textbooks and other instructional materials used at the school, and information about the school’s use of any supplemental curriculum or non-adopted textbooks or instructional materials. 

Core Curriculum Area  Quality, Currency, and Availability of Textbooks and Instructional Materials  Percent of Pupils Who Lack Their Own Assigned Textbooks and Instructional Materials 0%
Reading/Language Arts 
Prentice Hall:
Literature, California Edition
McDougal Littell:
The Language of Literature
0%
Mathematics 
HOLT California:
Course 1: Numbers to Algebra
HOLT California:
Course 2: Pre-Algebra
HOLT California:
Algebra 1
McDougal Littell/Houghton Mifflin: Geometry for Enjoyment and Challenge
0%
Science 
Holt, Rinehart and Winston:
Holt California Science Earth, Life and Physical Science
for Grades 6th through 8th
0%
History-Social Science 
6: McDougal Littell: McDougal Littell California Middle School Social Studies Series
7: Teacher's Curriculum Institute: History Alive! California Middle School Program.
8: Glenco/McGraw-Hill: Glencoe Discovering Our Past
0%
Foreign Language 
N/A
N/A
Health 
Glenco/McGraw-Hill: Teen Health

Plus materials from the American Heart Association and the National Dairy Council

0%
Visual and Performing Arts 
N/A
N/A

VIII. School Finances 

Expenditures Per Pupil and School Site Teacher Salaries (Fiscal Year 2007-08)  

This table displays a comparison of the school’s per pupil expenditures from unrestricted (basic) sources with other schools in the district and throughout the state, and a comparison of the average teacher salary at the school site with average teacher salaries at the district and state levels. Detailed information regarding school expenditures can be found on the CDE Current Expense of Education & Per-pupil Spending Web page and teacher salaries can be found on the CDE Certificated Salaries & Benefits Web page. 

Level  Total Expenditures Per Pupil  Expenditures Per Pupil (Supplemental / Restricted)  Expenditures Per Pupil (Basic / Unrestricted)  Average Teacher Salary 
School Site  $7,875 $2,679 $5,196 $81,848
District  N/A  N/A  $5,615 $81,666 
Percent Difference – School Site and District  N/A  N/A  93% 100%
State  N/A  N/A  $5,512 $63,421
Percent Difference – School Site and State  N/A  N/A  94% 129%

Types of Services Funded (Fiscal Year 2008-09) 

This section provides information about the programs and supplemental services that are available at the school and funded through either categorical or other sources. 

  • Regular Education
  • After School Sports
  • Class Size Reduction
  • Community Day School
  • Guidance Counselor
  • Homework Centers
  • Music
  • Outdoor Education
  • Summer School
  • School Force
  • Local Grants
Special Programs
  • Home to School Transportation
  • County Sp Ed
  • Psychologists
  • Speech
  • SP Ed IDEA
  • RSP, SDC & NPS
  • Teachers
  • Classified Staff
  • Benefits
  • Books & Supplies
  • Dist Block Grant
  • Drug Free/Title IV
  • Equipment
  • Food Services
  • Health Services
  • Teacher Quality
  • Title I
  • Title II
  • Title III
  • Title III not LEA
  • Title V
  • Title VI
  • School Safety Violence Prevention
  • Services
  • National Board Certified Teachers
  • BTSA
  • Staff Development
  • Arts Ed Partnership
  • Classroom Library
  • Economic Impact Aid (EIA)
  • Ed. Technology
  • Gifted And Talented Education (GATE)
  • Instructional Materials
  • Instructional Mat/Staff Buyout
  • Instructional Materials for Realignment Program (IMFRP)
  • Lottery Prop 20
  • Oracle Grant
  • Public School Library
  • School Safety
  • School Improvement Library Program (SLIP)
  • Standards Based
  • Tobacco Use Preventions Education
  • Tolerance Ed
  • TUPE Elementary

Teacher and Administrative Salaries (Fiscal Year 2007-08)

This table displays district salaries for teachers, principals, and superintendents, and compares these figures to the state averages for districts of the same type and size. The table also displays teacher and administrative salaries as a percent of a district's budget, and compares these figures to the state averages for districts of the same type and size based on the salary schedule. Detailed information regarding salaries may be found on the CDE Certificated Salaries & Benefits Web page.

Category District Amount State Average For Districts In Same Category
Beginning Teacher Salary $46,206 $41,031 
Mid-Range Teacher Salary $68,110  $63,366 
Highest Teacher Salary $87,974  $80,596 
Average Principal Salary (Elementary) $115,886  $100,937 
Average Principal Salary (Middle) $121,553  $105,066 
Average Principal Salary (High) N/A $106,534 
Superintendent Salary $188,325  $147,438 
Percent of Budget for Teacher Salaries 40.30 %  40.60 % 
Percent of Budget for Administrative Salaries 7.60 %  6.10 % 

IX. Student Performance 

Standardized Testing and Reporting Program  

The Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Program consists of several key components, including the California Standards Tests (CSTs); the California Modified Assessment (CMA), and the California Alternate Performance Assessment (CAPA). The CSTs show how well students are doing in relation to the state content standards. The CSTs include English-language arts (ELA) and mathematics in grades two through eleven; science in grades five, eight, and nine through eleven; and history-social science in grades eight, and ten through eleven. The CAPA includes ELA, mathematics, and science in grades two through eleven, and for science for grades five, eight, and ten. The CAPA is given to those students with significant cognitive disabilities whose disabilities prevent them from taking either the CSTs with accommodations or modifications or the CMA with accommodations. The CMA includes ELA and mathematics for grades three through eight and science in grade five and is an alternate assessment that is based on modifiedachievement standards. The CMA is designed to assess those students whose disabilities preclude them from achieving grade-level proficiency on an assessment of the California content standards with or without accommodations. Student scores are reported as performance levels. Detailed information regarding the STAR Program results for each grade and performance level, including the percent of students not tested, can be found on the CDE Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Results Web site. Program information regarding the STAR Program can be found in the Explaining 2008 STAR Program Summary Results to the Public guide. Note: Scores are not shown when the number of students tested is ten or less, either because the number of students in this category is too small for statistical accuracy or to protect student privacy. In no case shall any group score be reported that would deliberately or inadvertently make public the score or performance of any individual student. 

Standardized Testing and Reporting Results for All Students – Three-Year Comparison 

This table displays the percent of students achieving at the Proficient or Advanced level (meeting or exceeding the state standards). 

Subject  School  District  State 
2006-07  2007-08  2008-09  2006-07  2007-08  2008-09  2006-07  2007-08  2008-09 
English-Language Arts  70  74  80  73  75  79  43  46  50 
Mathematics  61  67  71  72  75  77  40  43  46 
Science  64  70  80  68  78  81  38  46  50 
History-Social Science  65  59  64  65  59  64  33  36  41 
Note: Scores are not shown when the number of students tested is 10 or less because the number of students in this category is too small for statistical accuracy or privacy protection. In no case shall any group score be reported that would deliberately or inadvertently make public the score or performance of any individual student.

Standardized Testing and Reporting Results by Student Group (School Year 2008-09) 

This table displays the percent of students, by group, achieving at the Proficient or Advanced level (meeting or exceeding the state standards) for the most recent testing period. 

Group  Percent of Students Scoring at Proficient or Advanced 
English-Language Arts  Mathematics  Science  History-Social Science 
African American  55  45  57  50 
American Indian or Alaska Native         
Asian  86  88  90  78 
Filipino  81  73  *  * 
Hispanic or Latino  56  43  58  37 
Pacific Islander  67  55  *  * 
White (not Hispanic)  84  73  84  66 
Male  74  71  79  62 
Female  87  71  81  65 
Economically Disadvantaged  62  56  *  * 
English Learners  39  42  *  * 
Students with Disabilities  53  50  56  39 
Students Receiving Migrant Education Services  *  *  *  * 

Note: Scores are not shown when the number of students tested is 10 or less because the number of students in this category is too small for statistical accuracy or privacy protection. In no case shall any group score be reported that would deliberately or inadvertently make public the score or performance of any individual student.

California Physical Fitness Test Results (School Year 2008-09) 

The California Physical Fitness Test is administered to students in grades five, seven, and nine only. This table displays by grade level the percent of students meeting fitness standards for the most recent testing period. Detailed information regarding this test, and comparisons of a school’s test results to the district and state levels, may be found on the CDE Physical Fitness Testing (PFT) Web page. Note: Scores are not shown when the number of students tested is ten or less because the number of students in this category is too small for statistical accuracy or privacy protection. In no case shall any group score be reported that would deliberately or inadvertently make public the score or performance of any individual student.  

Grade Level  Percent of Students Meeting Healthy Fitness Zones 
Four of Six Standards  Five of Six Standards  Six of Six Standards 
7 
5.2% 
16.9% 
75.0% 

X. Accountability 

Academic Performance Index 

The Academic Performance Index (API) is an annual measure of the academic performance and progress of schools in California. API scores range from 200 to 1,000, with a statewide target of 800. Detailed information about the API can be found on the CDE Academic Performance Index (API) Web page. 

Academic Performance Index Ranks – Three-Year Comparison 

This table displays the school’s statewide and similar schools API ranks. The statewide API rank ranges from one to ten. A statewide rank of one means that the school has an API score in the lowest ten percent of all schools in the state, while a statewide rank of ten means that the school has an API score in the highest ten percent of all schools in the state. The similar schools API rank reflects how a school compares to 100 statistically matched “similar schools.” A similar schools rank of one means that the school’s academic performance is comparable to the lowest performing ten schools of the 100 similar schools, while a similar schools rank of ten means that the school’s academic performance is better than at least 90 of the 100 similar schools. 

API Rank  2006  2007  2008 
Statewide  10   9   9  
Similar Schools  5   3   4  
"N/A" means a number is not applicable or not available due to missing data.
"B" means this is either an LEA or an Alternative Schools Accountability Model (ASAM) school. Schools participating in the ASAM do not currently receive growth, target information, or statewide or similar schools rankings on this report in recognition of their markedly different educational missions and populations served. ASAM schools are covered under the Alternative Accountability system as required by Education Code Section 52052 and not the API accountability system. However, API information is needed to comply with the federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) law. Growth, target and rank information are not applicable to LEAs.
"C" means this is a special education school. Statewide and similar schools ranks are not applicable to special education schools.
" * " means this API is calculated for a small school or a small LEA, defined as having between 11 and 99 valid STAR Program test scores included in the API. APIs based on small numbers of students are less reliable and therefore should be carefully interpreted. Similar schools ranks are not calculated for small schools.

Academic Performance Index Growth by Student Group – Three-Year Comparison 

This table displays, by student group, the actual API changes in points added or lost for the past three years, and the most recent API score. Note: "N/A" means that the student group is not numerically significant. 

Group  Actual API Change  Growth API Score 
2006-07  2007-08  2008-09  2009 
All Students at the School  -9   23   35   900  
African American         
American Indian or Alaska Native         
Asian  -13   4   25   957  
Filipino         
Hispanic or Latino         
Pacific Islander         
White (not Hispanic)  -14   22   38   913  
Socioeconomically Disadvantaged         
English Learners         
Students with Disabilities      92   775  
"N/A" means a number is not applicable or not available due to missing data.
"*" means this API is calculated for a small school, defined as having between 11 and 99 valid Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Program test scores included in the API. The API is asterisked if the school was small either in 2008 or 2009. APIs based on small numbers of students are less reliable and therefore should be carefully interpreted.

Adequate Yearly Progress 

The federal NCLB Act requires that all schools and districts meet the following Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) criteria: 

Detailed information about AYP, including participation rates and percent proficient results by student group, can be found on the CDE Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) Web page. 

Adequate Yearly Progress Overall and by Criteria (School Year 2008-09) 

This table displays an indication of whether the school and the district made AYP overall and whether the school and the district met each of the AYP criteria.  

AYP Criteria  School  District 
Overall  Yes   Yes  
Participation Rate - English-Language Arts  Yes   Yes  
Participation Rate - Mathematics  Yes   Yes  
Percent Proficient - English-Language Arts  Yes   Yes  
Percent Proficient - Mathematics  Yes   Yes  
API  Yes   Yes  
Graduation Rate  N/A   N/A  
"Yes" Met 2009 AYP Criteria
"No" Did not Meet 2009 AYP Criteria

Federal Intervention Program (School Year 2009-10)

Schools and districts receiving federal Title I funding enter Program Improvement (PI) if they do not make AYP for two consecutive years in the same content area (ELA or mathematics) or on the same indicator (API or graduation rate). After entering PI, schools and districts advance to the next level of intervention with each additional year that they do not make AYP. Detailed information about PI identification can be found on the CDE Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) Web page. 

Indicator  School  District 
Program Improvement Status 
  Not In PI
Not In PI  
First Year of Program Improvement 
N/A
N/A
Year in Program Improvement 
N/A
N/A
Number of Schools Currently in Program Improvement 
N/A
N/A
Percent of Schools Currently in Program Improvement 
N/A
N/A

XI. School Completion and Postsecondary Preparation 

Not applicable: Ralston is an intermediate (middle) school.


XII. Instructional Planning and Scheduling  

Professional Development 

This section provides information on the annual number of school days dedicated to staff development for the most recent three-year period.  

2006-2007: 2 days dedicated to staff development
2007-2008: 2 days dedicated to staff development
2008-2009: 1 day dedicated to staff development

Staff development activities are determined through a process which begins with the staff identifying needs that are related to the goals identified in the School Improvement Plan. Ralston’s teachers participate in one day of staff development during the school year. During minimum days on Wednesdays, teachers received training and professional development in:

  1. Mathematics
  2. Grade Level Collaboration
  3. School safety
  4. Curriculum and Instructional Practices
  5. Integrating Technology
  6. Review of state testing data
Individual staff members participate in additional conferences, workshops and training in specific areas identified in the Single Plan for Student Achievement. Professional development also includes peer coaching, particularly when teachers have specific expertise.

Our district uses a teacher evaluation program designed by teachers, which incorporates the California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTP). Teachers use the CSTP to both self-assess their areas of strength and of growth and to collaborate with their colleagues in setting goals. The principal uses CSTP during observations and in the summative evaluation.

XIII. National Assessment of Educational Progress 

National Assessment of Educational Progress 

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is a nationally representative assessment of what America's students know and can do in various subject areas. Assessments are conducted periodically in mathematics, reading, science, writing, the arts, civics, economics, geography, and U.S. history. Student scores for reading and mathematics are reported as performance levels (i.e., basic, proficient, and advanced) and the participation of students with disabilities and English language learners is reported based on three levels (identified, excluded, and assessed). Detailed information regarding the NAEP results for each grade, performance level, and participation rate can be found on the National Assessment of Educational Progress Web page (Outside Source). 

Note: Only a sample group of California's schools and districts participate in the NAEP testing cycle. Therefore, students in any particular school or district may not be included in these results. The NAEP reflects state test results and is not reflective of either the LEA or the individual school. Comparisons of student performance on the NAEP and student performance on the Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Program assessments cannot be made without an understanding of the key differences between the two assessment programs. For example, the NAEP only assesses grades four, eight and twelve and for long-term trends assesses grades nine, thirteen, and seventeen. Additionally, the NAEP only provides state test results for grades four and eight. The California Standards Tests (CSTs) are based on a different set of standards than the NAEP assessments. For example, the NAEP is not aligned with California academic content and achievement standards and, therefore, does not necessarily reflect the curriculum and instruction to which students are exposed in the classroom. The NAEP assesses reading and writing separately, while the CSTs assess English-language arts (ELA), encompassing reading as well as writing conventions, spelling, and grammar. Scores on the CSTs and other assessments are not directly comparable to those on NAEP. The averages and percentages presented are estimates based on samples of students rather than on entire populations. Finally, the questions students respond to are only a sample of the knowledge and skills covered by the NAEP frameworks. Information on the differences between NAEP and CST can be found on the CDE National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) Web page. 

National Assessment of Educational Progress Reading and Mathematics Results by Grade Level – Aggregated 

This table displays the scale scores and achievement levels on the National Assessment of Educational Progress Results for reading (2007) and mathematics (2009) for grades four and eight 

Subject and Grade Level  Average Scale Score  State Percent at Achievement Level 
State  National  Basic  Proficient  Advanced 
Reading 2007, Grade 4  209  220  30  18  5 
Reading 2007, Grade 8  251  261  41  20  2 
Mathematics 2009, Grade 4  232  239  41  25  5 
Mathematics 2009, Grade 8  270  282  36  18  5 

National Assessment of Educational Progress Reading and Mathematics Results for Students with Disabilities and/or English Language Learners by Grade Level – Aggregated 

This table displays the state and national participation rates on the National Assessment of Educational Progress for reading (2007) and mathematics (2009) for students with disabilities and/or English language learners for grades four and eight. 

Subject and Grade Level  State Participation Rate  National Participation Rate 
Students With Disabilities  English Language Learners  Students With Disabilities  English Language Learners 
Reading 2007, Grade 4  74  93  65  80 
Reading 2007, Grade 8  78  92  66  77 
Mathematics 2009, Grade 4  79  96  84  94 
Mathematics 2009, Grade 8  85  96  78  92