Each year about this time, we gather information and feedback from parents, learners, staff, and the community about how we are doing as a school. What is going well and what could we do better?  You may have already filled out the Parent Survey that was circulated last month. That was your chance to bring up topics or opportunities on a broader scale. 

Now, we’re doing a deeper dive into that feedback.

These Focus Groups are asking for more details on themes we saw presented in surveys collected from the teachers, parents, and learners as well as when we met with all of the staff to explore specific topics related to academics and testing during our Professional Learning days at the end of January. 

All of this information you are providing helps us to formulate our School Improvement Plan for the 26-27 school year and helps us plan to make the necessary improvements to our daily operations as a school so that your child has the opportunity for a high quality learning experience at CPDLF.

Since it is difficult to find one date and time that works for everyone who wants to participate, there are now two different options for participation. Your participation is much appreciated and welcomed if you want to be able to have a voice in planning what CPDLF has to offer.

1. Fill out this form that contains 10 open ended questions before April 24th.

2. Book a 30 minute appointment with me before April 24th.  We can meet via Zoom or phone, whichever works for you.  If you need evening or weekend time, please contact me at mmaurer@cpdlf.org.  

I will also be meeting with groups of learners via Zoom and in person Tuesday April 14th at the ALC. Please help your learners watch for the announcement with more details for them to be able to participate if they would like to have their voice heard as well.

State testing—like the PSSA and Keystone exams—isn’t always something learners or families look forward to. We understand that. It takes time, focus, and effort at the end of an already full school year.

At CPDLF, we see these assessments differently. They are an opportunity.

Over the course of the year, our learners build knowledge, strengthen skills, and grow in confidence. State assessments provide a moment to demonstrate that growth—not just to the state, but to themselves. It’s a chance for learners to recognize how far they’ve come.

These tests also play an important role in telling the story of our school. As a public cyber school, CPDLF is held to the same academic standards as every other public school in Pennsylvania. PSSA and Keystone results help show that our learners are not only keeping pace—but thriving in a flexible, personalized learning environment.

Remember: it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress.

So while state testing may not be the most exciting part of the year, it is an important one. It’s a chance to reflect, to demonstrate growth, and to take pride in how much has been accomplished. It’s a chance to demonstrate that personalized, learner-centered education works.

And that’s something worth showing up for. 

Not sure where to be or when? Please reach out to Joan Horsey at jhorsey@cpdlf.org.