NEW YORK – The recent release of preliminary 2023-24 statewide assessment results represent a small step forward for public transparency but a step backward for student outcomes.
We commend NYSED for releasing this important data before the school year begins to help inform instruction and provide information to parents. Last year, there was no public release of statewide assessment data until December. However, the newly released data is insufficient—it lacks disaggregation by student subgroups, does not detail district and school outcomes, and does not specify when and how parents will be receiving this information. Many states release their district, school, and disaggregated student assessment data months before the start of the school year. We urge NYSED to continue to expedite future releases to ensure this data is actionable for parents, educators, and policymakers.
The limited data available reveals deeply concerning trends. Less than half of all New York students are proficient in reading with scores declining from the 2022-23 school year. This drop includes a significant decrease in third grade reading proficiency, which is one of the most important indicators of future student success. These reading outcomes highlight an urgent need for state and district leaders to act with urgency to meet recently passed state legislation requiring districts to provide evidence-based literacy instruction in grades K-3 and do more to support student reading skills in all grades.
Math scores showed no improvement from last year, with only 41% of eighth graders achieving proficiency. Eighth grade math skills are closely correlated with future student success, particularly for students considering careers in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Finally, statewide outcomes in fifth grade and eighth grade science declined significantly with a 15% drop in eighth grade science proficiency from the previous year.
Taken together, these student outcomes are alarming and are trending in the wrong direction. We continue to stand by our call for urgent action, including:
- Ensuring literacy instruction aligned to the science of reading for all students and the training of teachers on the science of reading.
- Providing high-quality math curricula, instruction and teacher training.
- Expanding tutoring and expanded learning opportunities for students in need of extra support.
- Creating a state-level task force to ensure greater inclusivity and additional funding to develop inclusive assessment materials that address bias.
These results must serve as a wake-up call to state, district and community leaders that we cannot continue to do more of the same and expect better outcomes. Our students and families deserve better.
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About EdTrust-New York:
EdTrust-New York works to eliminate the gaps in equity and opportunity achievement that hold back too many students from reaching their full potential, especially those who are from low-income backgrounds or students of color, in order to enable all students in New York State to achieve at high levels — from early childhood through college. Learn more at EdTrustNY.org.