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Schools officials: Higher standards mean lower reading scores

By Justin Vick | Independent Tribune

Published: November 6, 2008

CABARRUS - School officials attributed sharp declines in the number of students passing the reading portion of the end-of-grade test to higher standards set by the State Board of Education.
The board increased reading standards this year to help students be competitive in the global marketplace. Math standards increased in similar fashion in 2006.
"Whenever test standards are realigned, we're sure to see dips in the results for the initial year," said Barry Shepherd, superintendent of Cabarrus County Schools, in reaction to Thursday's release of the results. "We fully expect to see improvement in our students' scores in subsequent years."
The percentage of students by grade level who showed reading proficiency in Cabarrus County Schools ranged from 58 to 66 percent - exceeding state averages for every grade level except fourth.
"The new reading standards definitely made a big difference in our test results," said Jo Anne Byerly, superintendent of Kannapolis City Schools. "But we applaud the state's higher expectations."
The number of Kannapolis students testing at grade level in reading ranged from 41 to 55 percent. Calculations provided by the school system showed percentages could have been 30 to 44 percent higher for each grade level if the 2007 standards were used.
Byerly said it's especially important for students to reach the highest levels with the North Carolina Research Campus being in Kannapolis. She said the system has the expertise to help students meet those expectations and excel beyond graduation.
The school system's approach to improving reading consists of more pre-school programs, small group instruction and home visits.
"Our teachers are working with students before, during and after school to make sure our children are considered proficient by any standard," said Peggy Wagstaff, assistant superintendent for instruction at Kannapolis City Schools.
Wagstaff said the system is also using recommendations received earlier this year when Kannapolis City Schools earned accreditation as an exemplary school district.
Grade level performance for Rowan-Salisbury Schools ranged from 44 percent to 53 percent proficiency.
Superintendent Judy Grissom said new initiatives, goals and expectations are in place to help students move forward. Literacy coaches, tutors and numerous reading programs are among those strategies, she said.
Jim Emerson, school board chairman for Rowan-Salisbury Schools, said results reaped from such programs will take time.