Public school students in Alabama showed improvements in their performance on the state’s standardized English language arts test, with the largest gains seen in the third grade. According to a report from the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama, 63% of third-graders scored proficient in English, a 9-point increase from the previous year. This improvement is attributed to the state’s focus on early reading, as well as the implementation of the 2019 Literacy Act, which requires more resources and interventions for early grade reading.
While there were increases in proficiency in math for most grades, the gains were not as substantial as in English. There is still a focus on implementing the Numeracy Act, which requires more early intervention in mathematics.
State lawmakers, including Sen. Arthur Orr and Rep. Terri Collins, have sponsored legislation to improve literacy and numeracy in schools, with the goal of ensuring that all students are proficient in these subjects. The TEAMS Act, which provides additional funding for math and science teachers, has also contributed to these improvements.
While economically disadvantaged and Black students showed increases in proficiency levels, there is still a significant achievement gap between white students and students of color. Asian students continue to outperform their peers on the tests.
Overall, the results from the standardized tests are encouraging, but there is still work to be done to ensure that all students have the necessary literacy and numeracy skills to succeed in the future.
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