The talking point at Windsor High School has become about our recent “Tier II” ranking.  In the fall and spring, all juniors in Vermont are required to participate in annual NECAP testing. These tests include material from, math, reading comprehension, writing, and science.  We have been ranked “Tier II” because we are in the bottom 5 percent of schools that lack improvement in the state of Vermont.

            A question worth answering is, what exactly does “Tier II” mean? Many students have come to the conclusion that this simply means that we are unintelligent. This, however, is not what “Tier II” means.  The Tier II ranking is based on the federal act, No Child Left Behind. Windsor High School is a Title I secondary school, which means it receives Federal funds.

In order to qualify for a Title I school, socio-economics come into play; Title I requires a certain amount of students to qualify for free or reduced lunch, which is based on family income. Since Windsor has been ranked “Tier II” it is eligible and will receive Federal funding. In order to receive the federal funding, Windsor must use the money for improvement. Superintendent, Donna Moyer, has chosen the “Transformation Model.” This method for improvement includes, “Implement each of the following strategies: (1) replace the principle and take steps to increase teacher and school leader effectiveness; (2) institute comprehensive instructional reforms; (3) increase learning time and create Community-oriented schools; and (4) provide operational flexibility and sustain support.”