Florida Makes Substantial Academic Gains

Friday, June 14, 2013

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Florida Makes Substantial Academic Gains

~ New report shows the Sunshine State's improvement among the best in the nation ~

Tallahassee, Fla., June 14, 2013 - Florida students had some of the largest and most rapid academic gains in the nation between 2003 and 2011 according to a new report by Education Sector. The report tracked state progress of fourth and eighth grade math and reading scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, and whether states are closing the achievement gap. Florida ranked eighth in the country for the gains in composite scale scores in both reading and mathematics for students eligible for free- and reduced-priced lunch, and 14th nationally for the improvement of all students.

"This report highlights Florida's long-time commitment to improving student achievement," said Commissioner of Education Dr. Tony Bennett. "As we move toward full implementation of the Common Core State Standards, it is important to retain our focus on preparing students for college or a career."

The report also cites Florida has having some of the most progressive policies on school accountability. Going back more than a decade, Florida has had a well-defined school grading system that accounts for both student proficiency and learning growth. Although the report focuses on how waivers to No Child Left Behind will affect the achievement gap, it also looks at state policies on measuring teacher effectiveness and college readiness.

To view the report, visit Education Sector.