Latest news with #Watts
Chicago Tribune
2 days ago
- General
- Chicago Tribune
Indiana SAT results show students vexed by math, but increase reading and writing scores
Indiana juniors who took the state-required SAT exam improved their reading and writing scores, while posting a slight improvement in math. The 2024-25 scores on the SAT taken by 81,620 juniors showed a 2.7% improvement on the evidence-based reading and writing portion, but just a slight math score improvement from last year. The Indiana State Board of Education reviewed the scores last week after their release. A state law requires students to take a national college entrance exam and receive a passing score no lower than the national cut score. This year's 'at college-ready' benchmark score for reading and writing is 480, while the math score is 530. The College Board administers the SAT. In reading and writing, 54.5% of students scored at or above the college-ready benchmark but in math, just 25.4% received passing scores, compared to 25.2% last year. The pass rate for both reading/writing and math was 24.5%. State assessment guidelines will change next year, as the state board develops a new grading system in line with the state's new diploma standards, effective for the Class of 2029, who begin ninth grade year this fall. Students can choose from a diploma that offers three readiness seals — college-bound, workforce employment, and military enlistment. Under the new model, juniors will still be required to take the SAT, but the scores will only be used toward graduation if a student chooses that option. Board member B.J. Watts said last week he wasn't too concerned about the low math scores because it's likely many of the juniors who took the exam weren't planning on going to college. 'If we only pulled out students who are college-bound, scores change drastically. 'Students may not see their place in that test,' he said. Lake Central High School, one of the largest traditional public schools in Northwest Indiana, with nearly 3,000 students, had the most students passing both portions of the SAT at 51.1%. Its students also had the top math pass rate at 52.8%. Among charter schools, the Hammond Academy for Science and Technology (HAST) had the highest pass rate for both subjects at 21.3%. Among private schools, Illiana Christian had the top pass rate for both subjects at 57.6%, including 59.25% of juniors passing the math portionEBRW Math Both State 54.5% 25.4% 24.4% Lake County Calumet New Tech 23.6% 4.9% 2.1% Crown Point 72% 39.9% 38.7% East Chicago 31% 5% 4.2% Gary West Side 20.5% 9.1% 3.8% Griffith 54.8% 11.5% 11.5% Hammond Central 23.8% 2.6% 2.6% Hammond Morton 22.5% 1.7% 1.7% Hanover Central 69.4% 31.6% 30.1% Highland 59.4% 21.2% 20.3% Hobart 53.8% 19% 17.7% Lake Central 73.9% 52.8% 51.1% Lake Station 31.3% 2.5% 1.3% Lowell 56.3% 21.6% 21.2% Merrillville 37.4% 13.1% 12% Munster 83.1% 46.6% 46.4% Whiting 37.5% 18.2% 14.8% Porter County Boone Grove 71% 35.5% 34.4% Chesterton 69.1% 39.5% 38.9% Hebron 53.3% 16.1% 14.9% Kouts 56.4% 27.3% 25.5% Morgan 71% 38.7% 38.7% NWI Online School (Duneland) 33.3% 4.8% 4.8% Portage 43.4% 16% 14.2% Valparaiso 70.9% 38.9% 38.1% Washington Twp. 81.5% 29.2% 27.7% Wheeler 60.7% 39.3% 35.7% Charter schools 21st Century Charter 25.7% 2.7% 2.7% Gary Lighthouse 10.2% 3.7% 1.9% Gary Middle College 5.3% 0% 0% HAST (Hammond) 56.3% 21.3% 21.3% Neighbors New Vistas 20.8% 4.2% 4.2% Steel City Academy 54.2% 0% 0% Thea Bowman 26.5% 0% 0% Private schools Andrean 81.7% 40.9% 39.1% Bishop Noll 69.7% 22.9% 22.3% Calumet Christian 87.5% 18.8% 18.8% Hammond Baptist 74.2% 29% 29% Illiana Christian 84.8% 59.2% 57.6% Marquette 77.8% 47.6% 44.4% Portage Christian 63.6% 27.3% 22.7% Victory Christian 79.2% 29.2% 29.2% *Indiana Department of Education
South Wales Argus
4 days ago
- South Wales Argus
Robber stole cash and tobacco at Tredegar petrol station
Newport Crown Court heard that Liam Watts and another man – who has not been identified – entered Nantybwch Service Station in Tredegar wearing balaclavas at around 8.45pm on December 23, 2023. There was a lone woman working in the service station, and the men grabbed her and told her to open the till. The men took £200 in cash, and Watts emptied packets of tobacco and cigarettes into a bag. The men hit Nantybwch Service Station in Tredegar. (Image: Google Street View) The pair warned the woman not to call the police, and the other man then grabbed a bottle of brandy as they fled. She phoned the police, and CCTV footage of the incident was provided. Police searched an address in Tredegar on January 1, 2024, in relation to an unrelated matter. Whilst at the address, they recognised a pair of grey Armani tracksuit bottoms. Forensic checks revealed Watts' fingerprints on a tobacco pack which had been dropped during the robbery. The defendant, who has five previous convictions for 12 offences, pleaded guilty to robbery. In a statement read out in court, the woman said she was left feeling 'particularly nervous' when working by herself late at night after the robbery, and she was concerned that the other man had not been identified yet. Liam Watts robbed a petrol station with another man. (Image: Gwent Police) Kevin Seal, appearing for Watts, said the defendant was 'sorry' and 'embarrassed' about his offending, and was so intoxicated during the robbery that he didn't realise the member of staff was somebody he knew. He said Watts developed a drug addiction and issues with alcohol after receiving a large amount of money and spending it all in a short period of time 'mixing with others and taking cocaine'. 'That's probably the worst thing that ever happens to him,' said Mr Seal. 'He then went on effectively a spree of offending.' Mr Seal said Watts was 'grateful' that he was now in custody, and that this gave him a chance to address his substance issues. 'It has put the brakes on a one way path,' he said. Addressing the defendant, Judge Carl Harrison said: 'This was a lone female working at night at 8.45pm in December. It was dark outside. 'Your offending has had a long-lasting effect on her.' Watts was jailed for two years and three months, and the woman was granted a five-year restraining order against him.
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Security app launch coming up in Durban North
A REVOLUTIONARY new safety app promising to transform how communities protect themselves has been officially launched in Durban North. Visionary and founder Jess Watts hosted partners and stakeholders at Java Café this week, unveiling HelpMe, an app he hopes will 'change the face of protecting ourselves and our families'. Also read: Durban North Tennis Club 'reveals' modern facilities after upgrade Watts recounted how, 15 years ago, a frightening experience while stranded on a Ballito roadside planted the seed for what would become HelpMe. 'I'd run out of petrol and had gone to a petrol station and a Good Samaritan offered me a lift. When I returned, I saw another car already parked by my vehicle, and the occupants were about to get out. Our arrival scared them off but that moment made me realise how vulnerable we can be,' he said. Described as the world's first data-free safety app, HelpMe uses cutting-edge technology to integrate seamlessly with security, medical, and fire services. Watts revealed that the app already services over 300 000 users and is South Africa's No.1 ranked security service provider on Hello Peter. For the Durban North community, project 4051 launch is uniquely tailored. 'This is about building a safety and security ecosystem around technology,' Watts explained. 'People who need help will be connected directly to service providers which is data-free. We're striving to be bigger, faster, and safer.' Marshall Security and Fidelity ADT have signed on as security response partners in 4051. Fourteen dedicated vehicles will be linked directly to the app's crime alert button feature, ensuring that whichever vehicle is closer, Marshall or Fidelity ADT, will respond first. Average response times are estimated at under four minutes, a development Watts called a 'game changer'. 'Without Marshall and ADT's commitment, this wouldn't be possible,' said Watts, thanking all safety, security, community, and media partners who contributed to the app's launch. Looking ahead, a major public launch event is planned, geared to host up to 10 000 people in a large expo-style format. The Community Connect and Protect event takes place at Northwood Crusaders Sports Club on August 2 and 3 from 10:00 to 16:00 on the Saturday and 10:00 to 14:00 on the Sunday. Plans for the event include 14 video stands showcasing the power of the HelpMe app, a range of emergency response vehicles on display, helicopter fly-ins, a live four-hour broadcast from East Coast Radio, DJs, competitions, and food and drinks. 'We're inviting the whole community to come and see how we're going to smash crime in 4051. It's all about partnerships and working hand in hand to make our communities safer and more secure. Together, we're making South Africa safer, one neighbourhood at a time,' said Watts. Residents of Durban North are encouraged to attend the event. For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Herald Scotland
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Paintings once owned by Rolling Stones drummer to be sold in dog art auction
One of the paintings once held in the collection of Watts is A Proud Mother by Robert Alexander, which is estimated to fetch £4,000-£6,000. Depicting a collie with its pups, it was originally exhibited at the Royal Academy in London in 1879. Bonhams said Watts was a devoted lover of dogs, owning nine collies with his wife, and was a patron of the Forever Hounds Trust. Leo Webster, picture specialist at Bonhams, said: 'We're exceptionally lucky to be offering paintings by of some of the most sought-after artists of dogs, from the 19th century to the 21st. 'The sale contains a wonderfully diverse range of breeds, from large deerhounds, St Bernards, and setters to smaller toy breeds like Affenpinschers, spaniels, and the ever-charming Dandie Dinmonts. There's something for every dog lover. Dandie Dinmont Terrier Ginger III features in the sale (Bonhams/PA) 'The dog sale consistently sparks fantastic interest from collectors around the world, and this year's auction is no exception; we're certainly seeing that same international buzz building already. 'The works in this sale come from a range of sellers, including some passionate collectors who've dedicated years, even lifetimes, to building their dog art collections – the loyalty goes both ways. 'A few paintings in this year's sale once belonged to Charlie Watts, drummer for The Rolling Stones, and judging by the collies featured in his collection, it's safe to say he had a soft spot for them.' Bonhams said there are six paintings in the sale that were previously owned by Mr Watts (lots 2, 19, 85, 86, 87 and 88). These are being offered from a collection unrelated to the late drummer but were purchased directly from his estate and were not on the open market. Other pictures in the sale include a painting by Eugene Verboeckhoven, titled Duke, depicting a King Charles spaniel, which is estimated at £15,000-£20,000. A 19th century British painting titled Dandie Dinmont Terrier Ginger III, by an artist known as APB, is estimated to sell for £3,000-£5,000. The long bodied, short-legged terriers were named after Dandie Dinmont, a central character in the Sir Walter Scott novel Guy Mannering. The sale takes place on July 23.
Time Business News
16-07-2025
- Sport
- Time Business News
Xavier Watts Could Be the Steal of the Draft
The Atlanta Falcons' revamped leadership and offensive weapons have received much attention as they usher in a new era under head coach Raheem Morris. In the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Atlanta may have made a major steal by acquiring safety Xavier Watts quietly. As one of the most decorated defenders in recent college football history, the Notre Dame star is entering the NFL. Moreover, as a player who is both mentally prepared, physically refined, and versatile in the draft. Watts' story isn't simply one of talent; it's one of relentless development, elite football intelligence, and a preparation process that left nothing to chance. Watts excelled at Notre Dame with 33 consecutive starts, culminating his career with eye-catching numbers. 188 total tackles (117 solo) 13 interceptions (tied for 3rd-most in school history and the most since 1996) 273 interception return yards, 2 defensive touchdowns, and 18 passes defensed Multiple forced fumbles and fumble recoveries He won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the top defensive player in college football and unanimous All-America honors for his breakout 2023 season, which included seven interceptions. In 2024, he made his best 82 tackles of his career, along with six more interceptions, 10 pass breakups, and another pick-six. Watts' Irish career ended with him being a two-time consensus All-American, a Notre Dame team captain, and a key member of one of the country's most respected defenses. Watts trained with Augustine Ume-Ezeoke, the founder of AUE Performance, to prepare for the NFL jump, which is aimed at developing not only stronger athletes but also smarter ones. Ume-Ezeoke, who also worked closely with first-round pick Kelvin Banks Jr., aided Watts in enhancing the exceptional qualities that made him a significant player at Notre Dame. 'College safeties can sometimes rely on raw athleticism, but in the NFL, a false step is the difference between a pass breakup and a touchdown,' said Ume-Ezeoke in an exclusive interview with RG. 'We layered speed and decision-making into his drills—motion shifts, sudden breaks, NFL route concepts. Every step had to be intentional.' Watts not only met the challenge, but he thrived in it. According to Ume-Ezeoke, Xavier Watts' mental toughness is what separates him from his physicality or instincts. 'I'd put him in uncomfortable situations—fatigued reps, surprise challenges. Verbal pressure—just to simulate the mental chaos of the league. He embraced it. His ability to stay composed and driven through it all is why I believe he'll have longevity in the NFL.' Watts was projected as a second-round talent by many analysts, but ended up on Day 2. With humility and hunger, he embraced the process instead of letting it derail him. 'He wasn't chasing the hype,' Ume-Ezeoke added. 'He was chasing growth.' Watts, a smart, adaptable, and ball-hawking defender. Joins Atlanta's defense as they seek to replace veteran safeties and address the need for playmakers. The Falcons can be flexible and reliable in the secondary thanks to his ability to play in multiple coverages, diagnose offenses pre-snap, and deliver in big moments. The culture Atlanta is attempting to cultivate is perfectly matched by Watts' reputation for film study, sideline leadership, and team-first mentality. His effect may not always be apparent on the stat sheet right away, but his presence will be felt. The NFL Draft is often filled with headlines that focus on quarterbacks and top-10 picks. But it's players like Xavier Watts, who was drafted in the third round, who often define a franchise's long-term success. In Watts, the Falcons didn't just get a safety. They have someone who sets the tone. One with top-tier production. One with a pro's mindset. A person who is ready to meet the moment and then another one. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
