With the latest release of Children at Risk's 2023 school rankings, Houston parents now have an alternative to traditional Texas Education Agency (TEA) scores to size up local schools. According to a report by the Houston Chronicle, the nonprofit's grading system focuses on key factors including standardized test results, considering poverty levels alongside student achievement and growth. This approach provides a more nuanced view compared to TEA's accountability scores which also include career and military readiness.
What sets Children at Risk apart is its Gold Ribbon designation, reserved for high-need schools that excel among their demographics. Bob Sanborn, president and CEO of Children At Risk, emphasized the importance of breaking the cycle of poverty, noting that the data supports college attendance as a critical component in meeting that goal, the Houston Chronicle reported. This year, schools that require an application process were excluded from this recognition to better honor those that offer opportunities to all students.
Meanwhile, an article from Indeed.com sheds light on another academic indicator: the average GPA. High school students eyeing college admission should be aware that the standard unweighted GPA in the U.S. hovers around 3.0, as per the National Center for Education Statistics. For those intent on higher education, it's crucial to aim above this average, with competitive colleges typically looking for GPAs between 3.5 and 4.0. Indeed's article also provides a helpful guide on how to calculate and improve one's GPA.
Such metrics are vital for students and parents alike navigating the educational landscape, where clear and achievable goals can be set based on these objective standards. As college readiness becomes an increasingly pivotal point for high schoolers, Children at Risk's focus on this factor aligns with the importance of GPA as a predictor of academic success and college admission prospects, as supported by Indeed's insights. Thus, while organizations like Children at Risk tailor their evaluations to local needs, broader indicators such as GPA maintain their relevance on the national stage.
