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DeSoto County School District’s Test Scores on the Rise

August 23, 2010

The first round of standardized tests results from the Mississippi Department of Education showed DCS students overall equaled or exceeded state averages in all areas tested, said Keith Williams, district test coordinator.

“From the preliminary reports we received, it looks like our total achievement component will be higher than it was last year and it looks like we’re going to meet the expected growth range set by the state for our students,” he added.

The second round will be the gauge of school performance the public better understands, using a seven-tier rating system—Star, High Performing, Successful, Academic Watch, At Risk of Failing, Low Performing and Failing. 

Last year DeSoto County School District was a High Performing School District, and indicators are the school district will fare well this year.  Final results will be published by October.

“When we look at the preliminary numbers, we’re very proud of how we think we’ll shake out,” Williams said.  “Our teachers and students have worked very hard to have numbers like we have.  It does not just happen.”

This is the second year the new accountability system has been in place with the Mississippi Department of Education.  This system bases its achievement rate on assessment tests, student growth and graduation rate.  It also measures districts and individual schools against the rest of the nation.

“A school cannot be a “Star School” unless growth is met,” Williams noted.  “Now with two years of data under the new accountability model, we get a better snapshot of where we are and where we are heading.”

While growth in some areas stayed relatively level, English II tests for high school students has grown significantly.