MANATEE DISTRICT STUDENTS IMPROVE READING
AND MATH SCORES IN 12 OF 14 CATEGORIES

(Bradenton, FL - June 10, 2008) The percentage of Manatee District students scoring at or above grade level in reading and math increased this year in 12 of 14 grade-level categories, according to Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test results released today by the Florida Department of Education.

FCAT scores are grouped in five different achievement levels, from a low of Level 1 to a high of Level 5. Students scoring Level 3 or higher are considered to be performing at or above grade level, according to the Sunshine State Standards.

Compared to 2007 results, the percentage of Manatee District students scoring at FCAT achievement levels 3, 4 and 5 in reading increased in fourth grade (66% in 2007 to 67% in 2008); 7th grade (60% to 64%); eighth grade (46% to 48%); ninth grade (38% to 43%) and 10th grade (31% to 36%).

Compared to 2007 results, the percentage of Manatee District students scoring at FCAT Achievement Levels 3, 4 and 5 in math improved in all grades tested. Manatee fourth graders improved from 63% in 2007 to 66 in 2008; fifth graders 55% to 58%; sixth graders 45% to 47%; seventh graders 53% to 56%; eighth graders 61% to 65%; ninth graders 57% to 64% and 10th graders 62% to 66%.

Some dramatic improvements at individual schools include the fourth-graders at Manatee Elementary, who improved the percentage of students testing at or above grade level by 27% in reading and 16% in math; fifth graders at Wakeland, who improved 38% in reading and 25% in math; and 10th graders at Lakewood Ranch who increased 14% in reading and 10% in math.

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