State Superintendent Catherine Truitt has launched a new advisory group to redesign the state’s current accountability model. Called Operation Polaris Testing and Accountability Advisory Group, it includes lawmakers, policymakers, educators, and other state leaders. The goal: develop a model that more effectively measures school quality. In a press release announcing 2021-22 test scores and school performance grades, Sup. Truitt said, “The current accountability model does not do justice to the hard work that teachers and students put in every day in schools across the state.” She added, “I look forward to working with stakeholders to consider other metrics important to determining school quality.”
A charter leader joins the Superintendent’s accountability group
At its formation, however, the group did not include representation from charter leaders. As a result, the Coalition expressed concern to DPI leadership, and this unintentional omission was rectified promptly. Earlier this month, Assistant Superintendent Andrew Smith asked John Marshall, Head of School at Union Academy Charter School, to serve. John has led Union Academy since 2020 and has worked as an educator and school leader for over three decades.
Head of School John Marshall stands outside Union Academy Charter School in Monroe, North Carolina. He will advise the Superintendent as a member of her new accountability group. Photo credit: John Marshall
Here is John’s statement, shared with the Coalition, about his service on the advisory group:
I’m delighted to join the Superintendent’s new advisory group on testing and accountability, as together we work to redesign the state’s current model. A veteran school leader in both the public and private K-12 sectors, I understand the importance of approaching accountability with a spirit of agility and innovation. We need to reimagine our outdated model, ensuring we measure outcomes that best reflect school quality—even as we continue to support academic achievement.–John Marshall, Head of School, Union Academy Charter School
The Coalition looks forward to hearing the recommendations from this advisory group. We’re so pleased to know John will be lending his expertise.
Read more about the Superintendent’s advisory group from EdNC.
