Data released shows because of requirements, ACT test takers increased and scores declined for the St. Joseph School District.
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released the data for April 2016 of eleventh grade students.
According to a press release from the district, the results show the composite score went from 20.1 for the district in 2015 to 18.8 composite score for 2016.
“In the past, the district received scores from students who voluntarily took the test,” Dr. Marlie Williams, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services said. “Last spring, all students in their junior year took the test. We now have an accurate gauge of college and career readiness for all our students and will be able to identify ways to improve so that our students are ready for the post secondary choices they make.”
Due to the statewide changes that dictate all juniors take the ACT test, the SJSD now has a baseline that is a reflection of all students, whether they are college or career bound.
In 2015, 479 students took the test (before the statewide requirement); in 2016, 740 students took the test (after the statewide mandate). Out of all SJSD juniors, 94.6% of students took the test.
“We have a focus on academics and this is one of our target areas,” Williams said. “Each school made sure to communicate how important it was for students to be in school the day of the ACT test. While the data shows room for improvement, this information helps our schools create a road map to meet the needs of our students and begin the work to see growth in this area.”
ACT Scores were down for 2016 in the United States due to an increased percentage of students who were tested, according to a press statement from ACT.
“This year’s ACT-tested class is more representative of the student population than any we’ve ever had,” said ACT Chief Executive Officer Marten Roorda. “We have likely added many more underrepresented students who may not have been preparing to go to college. In a situation such as this, it’s not at all surprising that overall achievement levels went down. Research clearly shows that scores initially decrease when states adopt the ACT for all students, but access and opportunities increase.”
