TNReady: Statewide improvement in math, high school English recovers from dip last year

Tennessee students showed improvement in math proficiency this year, according to testing data released by the Department of Education on Thursday. 

High school students recovered from last year’s dip in English and language artstesting scores, with the number of students testing proficient for the 2018-19 school year slightly surpassing proficiency demonstrated in the 2016-17 school year. 

For elementary and middle school students, however, the percentage of students demonstrating proficiency in English and language arts tests remained flat, the data showed. A slightly higher percentage of students in grades three through five tested proficient in the subject than did students in grades six through eight. 

“I’m impressed with the improvement we’ve seen in mathematics,” Commissioner Penny Schwinn said in statement about the data. “The dedication of our educators, commitment to implementing high-quality materials, and unwavering student focus is what sets Tennessee apart and will continue to be the catalyst for moving our state forward.” 

The release of testing scores for the 2018-19 school year follows the first online administration of the test without significant issues. Next year, Pearson Education will administer TNReady, with the state temporarily going back to paper assessments for the 2019-20 year. The hope from Gov. Bill Lee is the return to paper tests will aid in the state's transition to the testing company.

Credit: Laura Testino, Memphis Commercial Appeal