What does this measure?
The percent of students tested who scored at level 3 or above—meeting or exceeding the state standard—on the Grade 8 English exam. The test is scored by placing a student's performance in one of four levels.
Why is this important?
The middle school English examination serves as a checkpoint for high school preparation. Performance on this exam can help predict high school success in English.
How is our region performing?
In 2009, 72% of eighth-graders passed the English exam (met or exceeded state standards), 3 points above the results statewide and up 12 points from the previous year. Most counties in the region experienced similar increases, with the largest jump of 17 points in Wyoming County. In the Rochester School District, 43% of students passed the exam in 2009, up from 31% the prior year.
Notes about the data
The tests were revised for the 2006 administration as the federal No Child Left Behind requirement to test all children in 3rd through 8th grades took effect. Therefore, results prior to 2006 are not comparable to 2006 and later.