Elementary Test Scores Improve

Putnam City Elementary Test Scores Improve

Results of state tests in reading, math and other subjects show continued improvement in achievement by Putnam City elementary students, Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Sue Kuntze says.

In spring 2006, 3rd-, 4th- and 5th-graders across the state took state tests. As required by law, 5th-graders took tests in five subject areas; 3rd and 4th graders took tests in reading and math.

Grade 3 Results
3rd-graders took state tests in reading and math. It was the second year of state 3rd-grade testing in the same testing format (CRT), which means test results can be compared. The results:

On state reading tests, 85 percent of Putnam City 3rd-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was 84 percent.
On state math tests, 72 percent of Putnam City 3rd-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was 69 percent.

Grade 4 Results
4th-graders also took CRTs in reading and math for the second year. The results:

On state reading tests, 93 percent of Putnam City 4th-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was 90 percent.
On state math tests, 86 percent of Putnam City 4th-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was 81 percent.

Grade 5 Results
2006 was the third year of state testing for 5th-graders. During the last three years of state testing, Putnam City 5th-grade scores have risen in every subject area.

On state reading tests, 85 percent of Putnam City 5th-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was 82 percent. In 2004, it was 74 percent.
On state math tests, 86 percent of Putnam City 5th-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was also 86 percent. In 2004, it was 75 percent.
On state science tests, 85 percent of Putnam City 5th-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was 82 percent. In 2004, it was 80 percent.
On state social studies tests, 65 percent of district 5th-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was 69 percent. In 2004, it was 64 percent.
On state writing tests, 92 percent of Putnam City 5th-graders scored satisfactory or advanced in 2006. In 2005, the figure was 74 percent. In 2004, it was 61 percent.

A steady focus on increased student learning by teachers and administrators is behind the improved scores, Kuntze says.

"Our schools are filled with students willing to learn and with educators filled with determination. Teachers are implementing research-proven strategies for improving achievement. They’re collaborating to find better ways to address learning gaps and help all students achieve at high levels. We want our students to obtain a high-quality education that will prepare them to succeed in life," Kuntze says.