Camarillo schools post high state test scores

Ten of 13 schools in the Pleasant Valley School District recorded scores above the statewide goal of 800 in the Academic Performance Index.

The API is based on student scores on standardized tests, including the California Standards Test and the California High School Exit Exam (for high schools only).

Santa Rosa Technology Magnet School tallied the highest API score in the district, notching a 911. La Mariposa followed close behind, recording a 901. The school district average was 846.

"What I'm most pleased with is the continued growth in all of our schools," PVSD Superintendent Luis Villegas said. "I'm proud of all the schools. Really outstanding things are happening in this district at all of our schools."

Camarillo High School, which is part of the Oxnard Union High School District, recorded an API score of 797, the second highest in the district. OUHSD sponsors Camarillo Academy of Progressive Education charter school, which had an 899 API score. Rio Mesa High had a 712.

Santa Rosa Principal Thomas Holtke was pleased with his school's success in the classroom.

"It's a huge honor to be recognized as one of top schools in Ventura County," Holtke said. "Regardless of budget cuts, Santa Rosa has no intention of slowing down."

Although generally satisfied, Villegas thinks the district can grow.

"Good enough is not good enough," the superintendent said. "We're always looking for ways to improve."

Tierra Linda and Los Primeros elementary schools each notched scores of 880 in the API. They were followed by Dos Caminos (844), Camarillo Heights (841), Las Posas (835), Monte Vista (831), Las Colinas (821), El Descanso (820), Rancho Rosal (786), University Charter (760) and University Prep (757).

Villegas said he'd like to develop differentiated instruction in more classrooms across the district, while continuing to address the needs of gifted students.

The superintendent attributed Rancho Rosal Elementary's API score—the lowest figure among non-chartered schools within the district—to a variety of factors, including the school moving from different sites.

Villegas thinks Rancho Rosal, which grew by 75 students this year, will show improvements when the 2009 API scores are released next spring. But Villegas urged patience due to 19 teachers receiving pink slips, the highest number in the district.

Many of Rancho Rosal's teachers may not return, in large part because of the failure of five of six budget propositions in the May 19 election. Villegas said replacing so many staff members at one site could be "disruptive" to learning.

Because the propositions failed, mid-year budget cuts are likely.

Pleasant Valley will consider shortening the school year by seven days, Villegas said. The district and unions have already agreed to cut two days from the 2009-10 school year, but they may agree to take away five more days.

"It means deeper cuts," the superintendent said. "As far as we're concerned, we're looking at all options to get our budget balanced."