State Officials Release English And Math Test Results

New York State education officials have released the results of the statewide English and math tests given to students in grades 3 through 8 in the spring.

Results show the percentage of students who scored proficient levels in the English tests was just over 31%, a slight increase over last year.  In math, the number of students who scored at the proficient level has increased by seven points in two years to 38%

The tests have become controversial in recent years after being tied by the state to teacher evaluations and more rigorous Common Core learning standards.

Tens of thousands of students sat out this year's testing in protest.  According to state data, about 80% of eligible test takers took the math and English exams this year.

Individual student score reports will be available to schools to share with parents in the coming weeks.

For more on the test results, visit the New York State Education Department website.

Statement of NYSSBA Executive Director Timothy G. Kremer on the Grades 3-8 Assessment Results

Incremental progress is better than no progress, particularly during a period of tumultuous change in New York’s schools.

In the last five years alone, we have implemented rigorous learning standards, adopted controversial teacher and principal evaluation systems, and experienced increasing numbers of student test refusals.

While the changes have been rapid, real progress takes time. What our schools need most to succeed right now is stability.

We have seven years before we realize full phase-in of the Common Core standards. There is still time for new Commissioner Elia to achieve buy-in from stakeholders, and continue our schools on an upward trajectory.