La Canada schools have always received high scores. This year has seen some schools decline, however: Palm Crest Elementary's score dipped from 935 in 2005 to 909 and Paradise Canyon Elementary declined from 940 to 923. Although these schools did decline in scores they are still more than 100 points above the state's goal.
Once a school surpasses the 900 range it is difficult to maintain constant growth. No one knows this better than Ellis, as LCE's score last year was 960.
"I have to admit I was concerned," Ellis said. "I think every year it is a natural instinct to want to continue the growth."
She waited for this year's scores to come out, hoping that they may see a growth or just maintain their previous score.
"It is quite a goal to continue and achieve," Ellis said.
La Canada High School saw a growth of five points, its score is now 905. (The state high school average is 709.) The high school growth is more difficult to maintain because statistically elementary schools have higher scores.
In a previous interview with the Valley Sun, LCHS principal Damon Dragos said that LC students take the test very seriously. It is to the students advantage that they say they came from a high scoring school, Dragos said.
Ellis feels her school's success can be contributed to the teachers, staff, parents and community members who support the school.
"It is also because of the great leadership from the district...And of course the hard work of our boys and girls," Ellis said.
The scores are important however both Dragos and Ellis want to make certain that the focus stays on the students and not the tests.
"The big challenge is to make sure we are doing everything we can to meet all the needs of the students," Dragos said.
