Link is excited to share that recent New Jersey State Learning Assessment scores for our 5th through 8th graders demonstrate that our students are achieving and are on an upward trajectory of academic growth. The Spring 2024 test scores show that Link scholars outperformed the state in English Language Arts (ELA) (for the second year in a row) and outpaced the state in academic growth from the previous year. Link’s growth was also greater than that of several large local high-performing network charter schools and our sending district schools.
We take pride in being part of a strong public charter school sector, which has surpassed local public school districts. While we are encouraged by our students’ progress, we recognize that there is still much to be done to enhance student achievement and growth, particularly in math.
Head of School Maria Pilar Paradiso states, “This success is a testament to the collective efforts of our school community, the commitment of our teachers, and the hard work of our scholars, and we eagerly anticipate even greater accomplishments in the years to come. These scores are even more impressive when you consider that Link’s middle schoolers enter the school in 5th grade and that in just four years our scholars are experiencing tremendous growth. With the recent addition of lower grades, we are building a strong foundation for even more achievement.”
Link Education Partners delivers important resources to bridge the funding gap experienced by NJ charter schools and to provide a well-rounded educational program that nurtures mind, body, and spirit, allowing Link Community Charter School to drive student achievement and school growth. Link’s middle school scholars have taken the NJSLA test since the school converted to a public charter school. The elementary school, launched in September 2021 has now reached 3rd grade. Our new third graders will take the test in May 2025. This first round of testing with our 3rd grade will provide important indicators around the work we are doing with our youngest scholars.