standardized testing
Philadelphia students will begin applying to selective schools nearly a month later than planned because official state test scores remain delayed.
Philadelphia educators typically use PSSA and Keystone results to plan classes and student supports. This year, the scores are on hold as the first day of school approaches.
Students have positive things to say about summer opportunities provided by the school district and city. But the academic data the district shared doesn’t tell the whole story.
Better advising for high schoolers and more oversight for which credentials schools encourage students to earn can make a difference, some experts say.
School leaders also attribute the success to teacher training and expanded tutoring for middle school students.
The number of Philadelphia students passing their state exams to graduate has plummeted over the past three years. Some researchers worry that there isn’t enough evidence that the new paths to graduation are all useful.
The new test scores also show a statewide decline in reading proficiency.
The district spent $25 million on the new curriculum. Officials say more training, support, and patience are needed.
Scores for eighth grade reading and math as well as fourth grade reading are basically the same as NAEP results from 2022.
Nearly a quarter of students in grades 3-8 were proficient on the most recent district assessments.
Philadelphia school leaders say it will take a while for their multi-million dollar curriculum changes to improve students' scores.
The district did say it has concerns about data related to students with disabilities and those taking Algebra 1.
The district introduced a revised lottery system in 2022 to make the process more equitable, but students and educators have sharply criticized it.
Teachers will start using teaching methods and materials that align to what’s now widely considered the best approach to literacy instruction. But experts caution it won’t solve all problems overnight.
Gov. Josh Shapiro says the testing change will mean less time spent preparing for the tests and more time for actual learning.
District leaders say the scores on Pennsylvania exams are encouraging but that more work needs to be done.
The increases are relatively small, but they’re giving school leaders hope that Philadelphia students can continue to boost their scores in the years to come.
The report also includes measures of equity, including a racial breakdown of suspensions and access to Advanced Placement courses.
Pennsylvania’s Act 158 requires students to meet one of five “pathways” in order to get their diploma.
The impact of a 2018 state law expanding pathways to a diploma is coming into focus.