West Essex Regional Schools SAT Scores Highest in 10 Years

The West Essex Regional High School’s Class of 2014 received the highest SAT scores at West Essex in a decade, West Essex Superintendent of Schools Barbara Longo announced.

The total mean SAT score for the West Essex High School Class of 2014 was 1638, the highest average in more than a decade, Mrs. Longo said. “While the state’s scores increased by only one to two points in each section, our students increased 21 points in Critical Reading, 25 points in Writing and 23 points in Mathematics.”

Superintendent Longo attributed the 69-point increase over the 2013 scores to the district’s teaching staff. “While there may be many factors that affect test scores, there is no greater influence on student achievement than great teaching. Congratulations goes to all of the teachers in all subject areas who help make our students critical thinkers.”

West Essex High School Principal Gary Suda said he believes the higher scores reflect the school district’s success.
“The higher scores are a direct result of our vision of collaborative leadership coupled with the establishment of a more personalized school environment where all West Essex students are empowered and have a sense of belonging, ownership in the learning process, and equal access to all courses and programs,” he said.

“Additionally, our focus on teacher instruction, a high level of student engagement, rigorous curricula, and commitment to common assessments has paid dividends in the form of higher student achievement and SAT scores.”

In 2014, the average New Jersey SAT scores were: 501 for Critical Reading, 523 for Mathematics and 502 for Writing. In 2014, West Essex students scored an average 528 for Reading, 562 for Mathematics and 548 for Writing, all much higher than the state average.

“According to the College Board, students who score above 1550 on the SAT are most likely to be successful in college,” said Ryan Gupta, West Essex Director of Curriculum and Instruction. “With this year’s average score of 1638, the Class of 2014 will not only be prepared to enter college and/or careers, but will be prepared to succeed in those areas. We are very proud that West Essex students continue to average above that benchmark.”

Information courtesy of Allison Freeman