The Washington Roundtable is encouraged by results released today from the state’s first administration of Smarter Balanced assessments in English language arts and math for grades 3 – 8, 10 and 11.
“The Smarter Balanced tests are a valuable tool in assessing student growth and ensuring all students are on track to college- and career-readiness. We are encouraged by this first round of results. While Washington still has some way to go, the results demonstrate that we are on the right path toward ensuring all students are prepared for the world that awaits,” said Steve Mullin, Washington Roundtable president.
“We are pleased with the high test participation rates in grades 3 – 8 and grade 10. The data captured from these results will help educators identify achievement gaps and provide targeted interventions for students,” Mullin said.
Mullin added, “We are disappointed by the high test refusal rate in 11th grade. Because so many students refused to take the test, it will be more difficult to identify and help those students who would benefit from additional resources and targeted assistance.”
Mullin concluded, “We are pleased with this baseline year of Smarter Balanced results, which reflect the hard work of Washington’s educators and students. Washington must stay firm in its commitment to using the standards and assessments as a gauge of student achievement and to ensuring students demonstrate achievement of basic reading and writing skills as one requirement for high school graduation.”
The Washington Roundtable is a nonprofit public policy organization comprised of senior executives from the state’s major employers.