Editorial: Test scores reveal the task ahead

Friday, Dec. 20, 2002 | 3:33 a.m.

WEEKEND EDITION: Dec. 22, 2002

Last fall Clark County students in grades three through 10 took the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills. Test results are used to compare how well local students are doing in reading, language, math and science compared to students nationally. Results were released Wednesday and they were acceptable for grades three, four and five, but deplorable for grades six through 10. Yet the news is not all bad.

In the past, the district had given standardized tests only in grades four, eight and 10. At least now, having broadened the test base, we have a better understanding of where the true need lies. Obviously, the school district must find out what is happening once students enter sixth grade. Is this the time when overcrowded classes hit home? Perhaps that is the age level at which many students are transferring into the district from other areas and they are lacking the benefit of our education in the earlier grades. Perhaps there are nutritional deficiencies in that age group that affect learning. Whatever the reason, the district must discover it and create plans to reverse the trend of sinking performance in the higher grades.

Another insight from the test scores concerns the English Language Learners program. The scores showed that students who had gone through the program and then entered the general student population achieved near or above the national average. This is a significant finding, as ELL, with more than 40,000 students enrolled, is the fastest-growing program in the district. Since 1999 the district has made many improvements to this program and the results are showing. Superintendent Carlos Garcia considers this program critical to his long-term plan of improving education in Clark County. He is asking legislators for their support in increasing funding for this program and we hope they are listening.