Washingtons K-12 standardized test scores still below pre-pandemic levels

Washington state public school students experienced a slight improvement in standardized test scores this year, yet scores remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels. Nearly one-third of students failed to meet grade-level standards in math, while about a quarter did not meet standards in English. Disparities are stark, with many students from racial and ethnic minority groups scoring at the lowest levels. Superintendent Chris Reykdal noted the ongoing challenges posed by social media, economic stress, and safety concerns in schools. The Smarter Balanced Assessment, required by the federal government, shows that 50.

9% of students meet the English standard and 40. 7% in math. A new interpretation of scores now considers level 2 as demonstrating foundational knowledge, increasing the percentage of students at or above grade level to 70. 9% in English and 63. 3% in math.

Reykdal emphasized that low test scores do not equate to failure, as they are intended to provide trend data rather than individual assessments. Despite the challenges, Washington students generally perform well compared to peers in other states, ranking second in English and fourth in math.