Carvalho a Member of School Grades Task Force

The state proposed changing the school grading formula in February

The Department of Education announced Friday that Miami-Dade Superintendent Alberto Carvalho was named to the state task force on school grades, The Miami Herald reported.

The newly formed task force, created by Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson, will look into the new grading formula and weigh its benefits, the newspaper reported.

The formation of the task force was the result of the state’s proposal in February to change the school grading formula.

Some of the changes to the grading system include raising standards, as well as putting more importance on scores from students with disabilities and students learning English as a second language, according to the Herald.

“Working with the members of this task force who represent parents, teachers, administrators, and advocates who represent students with disabilities and English-language learners will help to shape the process of inclusion and accountability and ensure that everyone counts in Florida’s education system,” Robinson said in a statement.

But those against the new formula think the changes will result in more failing schools and will deter schools from enrolling disabled students.

Carvalho assured that the formula would not put any group at a disadvantage.

He was “hopeful that this statewide dialogue, in consultation with the federal government, will result in policy recommendations that strike a balance between the best interest of [English-language learners] and [special needs] students and the respect and dignity afforded those who teach them,” Carvalho was quoted as saying.

Southwest Miami Senior High special education teacher Agustin Grana was also named to the force, the newspaper reported.

Carvalho was last in the news for his support of North Miami Senior High School student Daniela Pelaez, who faced deportation a week ago.

"Over my dead body will this child be deported," Carvalho said. "There are some things worth fighting for, I will take on anyone who stands in her way."

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