Missouri’s schools bring a blend of hopeful strides and consistent obstacles, suggested by the freshest data coming out of the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP). Put together by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (SE), these exams offer a quick peek into how kids are doing throughout the state. The latest scoop shone a light on some headway, particularly in math but – here’s the kicker the trials in English language arts keep hanging on.

Current Trends in Test Scores  

The preliminary MAP scores, presented to the State Board of Education, indicate that Missouri students are making strides in several key areas:

• Math: Scores have shown a notable recovery, with some categories even surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Particularly in middle school, students have demonstrated significant gains. The percentage of students scoring in the advanced category for math in grades 3-8 has increased by one percent compared to 2019.
• English Language Arts (ELA): Despite some progress, ELA scores remain a concern. Currently, 56% of students score in the “basic” or “below basic” range, a figure that has remained static since 2022. This suggests that many students are still struggling to meet grade-level expectations.
• Overall Improvement: Since the disruptions of 2021, there has been a gradual improvement in scores across all subjects. In 2021, 24% of scores were classified as “below basic.” This has since decreased to 22%, though it is still higher than the 19% recorded in 2019.

Interventions and Initiatives  

To address these challenges, DESE has been implementing a range of interventions based on the science of reading and increased teacher training. Board member Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge describes these efforts as “triage care,” which have “stopped the bleed” but have yet to produce significant gains in literacy.

Lisa Sireno, assistant commissioner of quality schools, emphasizes that meaningful improvements require “continuous, sustained focused implementation with fidelity at the local level,” which may take up to five years to yield significant results. She also points to teacher shortages as a potential factor impacting test scores, particularly in the 2023-24 school year.

The Structure of the Missouri Assessment Program  

The MAP consists of various assessments tailored to different grade levels and subjects:

• Grade-Level Assessments: Students in grades 3-8 are tested annually in English language arts and math. Additionally, students in grades 5 and 8 take science assessments.
• End-of-Course (EOC) Assessments: High school students get rated on certain classes, not just their grade levels. The main subjects include Algebra I, English II, Biology, and Government. There are also tests in Algebra II, Geometry, and American History if the district wants them.
• MAP-Alternate (MAP-A): is for students with serious cognitive disabilities. It checks skills in communication arts, math, and science across different grades. This assessment uses a portfolio method to evaluate daily living skills.

Administration and Performance Metrics  

Missouri’s annual testing window occurs every spring, with flexibility to extend testing periods due to unusual circumstances like inclement weather. Student performance is reported in four achievement levels, providing a pathway to proficiency:

•    Below Basic  
•    Basic  
•    Proficient  
•    Advanced  

These performance standards contribute to each district’s Annual Performance Review (APR), which serves as a measure of accountability under the Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP 5).

Ongoing Challenges and Future Prospects  

While there have been improvements, Missouri’s educational system continues to face challenges:

• English Language Arts: The persistent struggle in ELA scores highlights the need for targeted interventions and support for students and teachers.
• Teacher Shortages: The lack of qualified educators is a concern that may hinder the effectiveness of ongoing interventions and the overall improvement of student outcomes.
• Resource Allocation: Ensuring that schools have the necessary resources to implement interventions effectively is crucial for sustained progress.

Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge remains optimistic, noting that the investments made in the past two years are starting to stabilize the educational system. She believes that as these interventions take root, Missouri will begin to see more substantial growth in student achievement.

Wrapping It Up

Missouri’s standardized test scores tell a story about progress. Math scores are good, but English language arts scores there’s still work to do. Improvement needs dedication and specific actions. Missouri is determined to push forward and help teachers. The path to better education is ongoing. With strategies based on data and support for teachers, there’s a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.