January 22, 2007

LANSING – Two years after schools began implementing new, more rigorous K-8 Grade Level Content Expectations in mathematics and reading, students have responded with higher achievement.

Mathematics and reading scores on the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) tests increased for the state’s elementary and middle school students, the Michigan Department of Education reported today.

Mathematics scores improved at every grade tested (3^rd through 8^th), while reading scores increased in grades 4-8 and remained steady at grade three. Fifth-grade science scores also increased.

"These results show that when we invest more in our schools and expect more of our schools, Michigan students achieve more," said Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "The investments we make in public education are essential to creating a strong economy and new jobs in Michigan ."

Michigan students were tested in October 2006 on skills learned through the end of the previous year. It is the second straight year that MEAP testing was conducted in the fall, after several years of mid-year testing. The change was implemented by the State Board of Education so schools would receive student results during the same school year.

This year’s January release of MEAP data to schools comes two months ahead of last year’s data and will give educators more time to analyze the results and address any curriculum needs in the classroom.

“We are seeing school districts using these MEAP data to not only help students on an individual basis, but also to help inform teachers on what students at these grades should know and understand by the end of the school year,” said State Board of Education President Kathleen N. Straus.

The Grade Level Content Expectations provide teachers and students with detail and focus on the skills students should know at the end of each grade.  They were designed to bring a more consistent curriculum across the state for each grade, K-8.

“Grade Level Content Expectations are classroom-focused – what actually is taught in the classroom,” Straus said.  “Educators believe this will help students achieve at high levels, and we are beginning to see that happen.”

The State Board of Education adopted the Grade Level Content Expectations for mathematics and English language arts (ELA), which include reading, three years ago. The State Board will be presented with proposed K-8 Grade Level Content Expectations for science and social studies later this year.

“We are very encouraged to see these gains in test scores across the state,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan.  “What is important for schools to do now is use their test results to improve instruction. Many school districts have implemented systems that analyze their MEAP data and adjusted their curriculums and lesson plans.

“I urge every district to not just file their MEAP data in a drawer, but to use them to improve their schools and boost the quality education they deliver to our kids,” Flanagan added.

Over 80 percent of Michigan students in grades three through seven met or exceeded expectations on the reading assessment, as did third- and fourth-graders on the math assessment, and fifth-graders on the science test.

Students’ MEAP scores are divided into four performance levels: Exceeded Expectations, Met Expectations, Basic, and Apprentice.  Students who place in either the Met Expectations or Exceeded Expectations levels are considered to be “proficient” in that subject.  Those who place in the Apprentice or Basic levels are deemed to be “not proficient.”