Peabody MCAS Results: Schools Perform Below State Average

PEABODY, MA — Massachusetts released the results for the latest round of MCAS tests, and the number of Peabody students meeting or exceeding expectations lagged behind state averages on 18 of the 19 assessments. Only eight graders taking the science assessment topped state averages.The state uses the tests as a key guide to performance of its schools and as part of its effort to bring accountability to the education system.

Patch has asked school officials for comment and will update this story when we hear back from them.

On the new, more rigorous English exam for 10th-graders, 52 percent of Peabody students exceeded or met expectations — below the 61 percent statewide. On a tougher math exam for 10th-graders, 48 percent of Peabody High School students exceeded or met expectations, belowthe 59 percent who met that mark across Massachusetts.

The state rolled out "next generation" tests in 2019, which have much higher expectations, especially in math and English. Thankfully for students, the state is taking that into account when determining passing scores. For the next two years, the passing score will be at the upper end of the "not meeting expectations" category.

Check out the complete break down of Peabody's scores on the MCAS results released Tuesday.