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Students fare well in tests, improving on 2000 scores
by Robb Fulcher
Hermosa’s public school students once again scored well across all grade levels on the state-mandated Stanford Achievement Test, which is designed to measure proficiency in reading, writing, math and spelling.
The results were similar to last year’s, with Hermosa students scoring mostly in the top 20 percent to 30 percent of all students statewide.
In addition the Hermosa students showed almost across-the-board improvement. Out of a total of 28 categories tested, the district’s kids improved in 21 areas, slipped in four areas and remained even in three areas, compared to last year’s results.
The tests were taken by roughly 650 Hermosa students in grades 2 through 8, and the results were announced this week by the California Department of Education.
Highs and lows
The lowest scores came in the category of eighth grade spelling, in which Hermosa students ranked only in the top 40 percent nationwide. That represented a 1 percent slip from the year before.
By subject area, students in most other grades also made their lowest scores in spelling.
The top scores came in the category of sixth grade math, in which Hermosa students ranked in the top 13 percent nationwide.
Educators typically view the standardized tests as one of many indicators of scholastic performance. Educators will continue to study these most recent scores and release more detailed reports on the students’ performance.
Statewide gains
Statewide, students for the third year showed overall gains in English-language arts and math, state educators said.
"Overall scores are up and that’s good news. However, the performance on the new California standards tests reveal that we still have much work to do to achieve world-class results," said state Superintendent of Public Instruction Delaine Eastin. ER