State Puts Positive Spin On FCAT 2.0 Scores
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Florida students did better than expected in reading and math, according to a Florida Department of Education analysis of the latest batch of Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test results.
The department released FCAT 2.0 scores today in elementary and middle school reading, math and science.
Results for 2012 FCAT 2.0 Reading show 59 percent of students in grades 4 through 8 scored a 3 — considered ‘satisfactory’ — or above. In FCAT 2.0 Mathematics, 57 percent of students in grades 4 through 8 scored a 3 or higher.
The test is more demanding than its predecessor. This school year was the first time new achievement levels were in place.
The 2012 scores are roughly equal to last year’s scores, after the state education department compared the old scores to the new scale.
For FCAT 2.0 Science, only 46% of 8th graders and 51% of 5th graders passed.
The state uses these levels for grading:
- Level 5: Students at this level demonstrate mastery of the most challenging content of the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards.
- Level 4: Students at this level demonstrate an above satisfactory level of success.
- Level 3: Students at this level demonstrate a satisfactory level of success.
- Level 2: Students at this level demonstrate a below satisfactory level of success.
- Level 1: Students at this level demonstrate an inadequate level of success.
Last December, the State Board of Education raised the expectations for students and set new achievement levels for FCAT 2.0. None of the test results released today will keep a student from moving on to the next grade.
“Florida is leading the nation by preparing our children for more challenging Common Core Standards and assessments,” Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson said in a statement.
“Our state has spent more than a decade reforming public education and we know that sound transition takes time and patience,” he said. “Florida’s children will compete for the jobs of tomorrow and we must do everything possible to ensure that they are ready. We cannot be fearful of change and the ambitious goals set before us.”