NECAP Scores In EG Down Slightly From 2011

East Greenwich students did not score as well on NECAP reading and math tests as they did a year ago, according to results released Friday by the state Department of Education. EG scores remained far above the state average.

The New England Common Assessment Program tests were taken in October by students in grades 3 through 8 and 11.

Overall, in reading, 90 percent of EG students scored proficient or proficient with distinction; that percent was 92 in 2011. In math, 80 percent of EG students scored proficient or proficient with distinction; that percent was 83.

The state average in reading was 73 percent proficient or above; in math it was 57 percent proficient or above.

State Education Commissioner Deborah Gist said Friday results statewide were "disappointing." She did note changes brought about by Race to the Top would not be reflected in test scores for a few years. Those changes include yearly teacher evaluations, tougher standards requirements for those wanting to enter state teaching-training programs, and enhance data to help track student performance.

Supt. Victor Mercurio said the school principals were just beginning to analyze the data, but he conceded disappointment in math scores.

"Math, as it is for most districts, is a struggle," said Mercurio. "We have to go back and revisit what we’ve done to support students, whether or not those things have been effective."

The NECAP tests are taken by students in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, in addition to Rhode Island. New Hampshire students scored highest in reading, 79 percent at or above proficiency in grades 3 through 8, and 77 percent for 11 grade. Maine and Vermont are on par with R.I., which was 72 percent and 79 percent, respectively.

In math, again New Hampshire students scored higher – 73 percent at or above for grades 3 through 8, 38 percent for 11 grade. Vermont scored 65 percent and 38 percent, respectively. R.I. students scored 61 percent and 34 percent.

For more information about East Greenwich scores, check out the R.I. Department of Education's website here.