The educational audit compared Terrebonne Parish Schools to similar school systems nationwide. Using a variety of data sources including SchoolMatch records, data available from the Louisiana Department of Education, professional judgement and research techniques, which include data analysis, interviewing, and polling among others, the auditors examined a wide expanse of performance indicators. Indicators ranged from test scores, to students and staff attendance, and to public support for the school system. In addition, individual school building indicators were reviewed and compared with schools across the country having similar demographic profiles. In each case, the results were compared against those of similar school systems nationwide.
Effectiveness is associated with specific conditions of schooling.
Achievement analysis included expected levels of achievement, early grade and upper grade analysis, cross-subject analysis, advanced placement analysis, and grade inflation analysis, student and teacher attendance, dropout information and school improvement plans. The audit made clear the case for school reform on a school by school basis as well as on a district basis. Each school in the district received a review of their data summarized into a standards report, which presented a standard, the mean and the status of the school for 1996-1997. Updates have been provided on a yearly basis since then. In summary, the audit found that our school fell below the standards in all areas, and continues to fall below the standards.