Our teachers have been busy at work analyzing student data from our baseline MAP assessments in literacy and mathematics. MAP, a norm-referenced screener, provides real-time feedback on how students compare against the nation. Data from our data talks will support improving and accelerating student achievement in both literacy and mathematics.

Improving literacy outcomes is a major goal of our school and the entire school district. Our teachers engaged in professional learning with Dr. Fran Perkins, a national consultant in literacy, who is well respected for supporting teachers in using research-based practices to improve literacy outcomes. Her full day with our BAMO teachers consisted of providing professional learning on how to effectively use our curricular resource as well as understanding the importance of interactive read-aloud, mini-lessons, and an introduction to guided reading. BAMO is well on the way to accelerating the growth of literacy! 

Can you believe that over 59 students have completed applications to hold a spot on our highly sought after BAMO Broadcast Club? Under the direction of our amazing Media Specialist, Ms. Foushee, we are all waiting to see who will serve as our first anchors and broadcast crew. These opportunities provide students with authentic opportunities to improve listening and speaking standards found within the ELA curriculum, not to mention being more confident in speaking and presenting, which are skills for life! We are so proud of our students for taking risks as an IB candidate school!

In celebration of National Attendance Month, the month of September across APS, efforts to work closely with parents to improve school attendance. Students must be in school to master content and grow academically. Our school social worker, Ms. Afeso,  launched the NBA “Never Been Absent” program and it was a huge hit.  With a team of teachers and staff serving as NBA coaches, targeted families will compete for improved attendance over the course of the first semester. Using a grant from ReDefined Atlanta, students, and parents, will earn prizes and incentives with improved attendance. The kick-off was held, and it was a huge success!

With a focus on improving literacy outcomes, we are excited that so many students are interested in participating in the APS Picture and Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl! Our applications are in, and the students are focused on reading and preparing to make the final team.  

BAMO truly believes in family and community engagement. Our school showed up in record-breaking numbers at our annual Maynard Jackson High School cluster football night! We were also able to feature our BAMO dance team. We had such a great time and are looking forward to next year’s event with our other amazing schools in the Jackson cluster!