Wayne sets record overall scores on end-of-grade tests
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on July 7, 2004 2:08 PM
Wayne County has recorded its highest number of students passing state standardized tests, according to early results.
Students in grades 3 through 8 saw a .2 percent increase in those scoring at or above grade level on the end-of-grade math tests. In all, 87 students passed last school year.
The schools also had a .6 percent increase in those passing end-of-grade reading tests, for a total of 82.9 percent.
A detailed analysis of the report, with information for each school is expected in August. The schools also expect to receive a detailed analysis on the federal No Child Left Behind law on July 19.
The end-of-grade tests are used to determine whether teachers get bonuses or schools are placed on warning lists for low achievement.
In math, 29 percent more students scored at or above grade level on the tests last year than during the first year the tests were given in 1993.
That percentage rose from 57.7 percent in 1993 to 87 percent in 2003.
In reading, since 1993 the county has shown a 21 percent jump in test scores. In 1993, the percentage was 62.4 percent as compared with 82.9 percent scoring at or above grade level in 2004.
Dr. Steve Taylor, superintendent of schools, said the test results show that best practices are being applied in the public school classrooms. He added that student learning continues to improve.
"While these results are impressive," he said, "we will continue to strive towards increased improvements as we meet the goals and objectives of the state's ABCs Accountability Model as well as the most recent federal No Child Left Behind legislation."
He commended teachers, support staff, students and parents for the results.
Dr. Craig McFadden, assistant superintendent for accountability and student services, said the test is given to students in grades 3 through 8, representing almost 10,000 students.
He said the tests are designed to measure mastery of the state's standard course of study. Students are required to be tested in math and reading.
"The progressive increases are exactly the kind of instructional improvement we like to see," he said.