By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – The State Education Department released data Thursday on English tests administered to students in grades three through eight. The data showed a steady and relatively higher level of achievement in the elementary grades and lower achievement starting in Grade 6.
The Buffalo Public School District mirrored the statewide trend, showing an incremental decline in scores by the time students reach the middle school grades. While 37.2 percent of third grade students in Buffalo met or exceeded state standards, that number fell to just under 21 percent for eighth graders.
Schools Superintendent James Williams says nearly half of all students were one grade level below where they should be. He says his goal is to move these students forward enough so that three-quarters are meeting the standards.
Williams says the district is taking corrective action to improve its reading scores.
In the past, just fourth and eighth grade students were tested. Now, all students between grades three and eight are taking exams in English Language Arts. Williams says that will allow teachers to better track students from year to year and make adjustments to meet their needs.
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