Pickens County Students Improve End-Of-Course Scores

School District of Pickens County students improved their average scores on End-of-Course Exams for the fourth year in a row.

The district's scores also were above the state average in every subject area.

The End-of-Course Exams are given to middle and high school students. Students are tested on Algebra/Mathematics, Biology, English and U.S. History. SDPC students averaged an 82.2 percent in Algebra/Mathematics, 82.9 in Biology, 79.7 in English and 71.7 in U.S. History. The state averages in those subject areas are 81, 80.8, 78.2 and 71.2 respectively.

“We are proud of our students and teachers for their progress on the EOC” said. Dr. Kelly Pew, superintendent. “While we remain above the state average in each area, our goal is to continue to improve.”

Also, the percentage of students who failed their exams declined from 2011 in every subject except English, which stayed the same. The fail rate fell dramatically for Biology from 30.9 percent to 17.1 percent, for Algebra it fell
from 17 percent to 15 percent and in U.S. History from 48.2 percent to 46.8 percent.

“We are very pleased to see that more students are being successful on the EOC tests,” said Sharon Huff, assistant superintendent of Instructional Services. “These tests are rigorous, and our teachers work hard to ensure that
students are prepared. As such, our teachers will implement benchmark testing this year to receive feedback on student progress that will help them guide instruction. We hope that the implementation of these benchmark tests
will result in even great success for our students.”

Success in End-of-Course exams also directly impact federal school report card grades, as scores on the social studies and science portions of the exam count 5 percent each toward those grades.