DAIS Elementary Annual Academic Results

At Dalian American International School, we take pride in understanding the unique educational journey of each student. Each year, we conduct an in-depth analysis of student performance using Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessments in Math, Reading, Language Usage, and Science, as well as the Writing Assessment Program (WrAP).

Our goal at the start of each school year is to ensure that teachers have a clear understanding of each student's learning journey and can create a differentiated learning pathway tailored to their needs. Throughout the year, we review our data at the beginning of each quarter, aligning it with classroom assessments to better address our students’ needs. At the end of the year, teachers reflect on strengths, areas for growth, class-wide trends, and how our students’ performance compares to international peer groups, including EARCOS, schools in the United States, and schools worldwide.

Analysis

On the Spring 2024 MAP test, DAIS Elementary students achieved strong average scores, consistently matching or exceeding those of our peer groups, including EARCOS, which is known for impressive MAP performance. 

More importantly, the data shows significant growth from fall to spring, emphasizing not just high scores but the progress students made throughout the year. This growth is a key indicator of the effectiveness of our academic programs in developing students' knowledge, skills, and abilities. In core subjects such as Math, Reading, Language Usage, and Science, DAIS students consistently outperformed their comparison groups of EARCOS, U.S. schools, and all schools worldwide. This exceptional progress underscores the strength of our standards-based, data-driven approach, aligning with our mission to foster personal excellence and academic success.

The Writing Assessment Program (WrAP) measures student writing achievement, helping teachers identify strengths and areas for growth across six domains: organization, support, sentence structure, word choice, mechanics, and overall development. Our students' WrAP results showed higher achievement compared to their peers in international and independent schools. Year-over-year comparisons indicate that DAIS students in grades 3 to 5 consistently perform very well on the WrAP assessment.

How Do We Achieve These Remarkable Results?

At DAIS, we focus on creating a learning environment where every child can thrive by using the following key approaches:

1. Standards-Based Grading

• Clear Focus on Mastery: We prioritize students' mastery of specific skills and learning goals.
• Detailed Feedback: Instead of traditional letter grades, we offer detailed feedback on progress in each subject area.
• Growth-Oriented: This method helps identify where students are excelling and where additional support is needed, ensuring continuous growth.

2. Data-Driven, Student-Centered Approach

• Personalized Learning: Our workshop model fosters engagement, allowing students to learn at their own pace.
• Technology Integration: We utilize tools like Khan Academy, IXL, and Raz Kids to provide individualized practice that meets each student’s needs.
• Learning Support: A dedicated team provides targeted interventions for students with special needs.
• EAL Program: We effectively support English language learners, building their fluency and confidence.

3. Ongoing Assessment

• Data to Inform Instruction: We use data to continually adjust teaching methods and ensure every student is working towards their full potential.

By focusing on these strategies, we ensure that each child’s learning journey is tailored to their unique needs and abilities.

DAIS Elementary Principal
Mr. David Jones