The Department of Research, Accountability, and
Assessment (DRAA) provides data analyses and other
information to facilitate the monitoring of progress toward
achieving the goals of the Blueprint for Progress. This is
accomplished through the development, implementation, and evaluation
of system research activities, including all aspects of conducting
and reporting results of research and program evaluations related to
the many factors that impact student achievement, and analyzing and
reporting performance results. The department prepares the Annual
Report on Results and other accountability documents, such as
the Maryland School Performance Program Report, the Master Plan, and
the Bridge to Excellence Master Plan Update. In addition the
department is responsible for all aspects of implementing and
monitoring state- and county-mandated testing programs, including
the Maryland School Assessment (MSA and Alt-MSA), High School
Assessments, PSAT, and for providing support to curriculum
offices in the identification and administration of other
assessments. DRAA also oversees compliance of adequate yearly
progress accountability for schools in improvement, and provides
leadership and systemwide support for the alignment on Baltimore
County Public Schools' school improvement plans and processes with
the Blueprint for Progress and federal and state
requirements.
Goals for 2007-2008
Provide research results and other data-based
information to support systemwide efforts to engage in continuous
improvement to ensure that all students are prepared for college,
the workplace, and life after high school.
Provide support to offices and schools in
data analysis and interpretation to assist with the identification
of the issues underlying student performance results.
Collaborate with offices systemwide to
provide support for planning and implementing high quality program
evaluations to determine best practices for instruction.
Evaluate and prioritize requests from
external agencies, universities, companies, and individuals who wish
to conduct research in Baltimore County Public Schools.
Ensure that the system meets requirements for
accountability under the Bridge to Excellence and No Child Left
Behind acts in regard to the system Master Plan and school
improvement.
Provide ongoing communication and support to
school test coordinators and administrators on all aspects of state-
and county-mandated assessment programs to ensure compliance with
federal, state, and local requirements.
