School Director Arnold – TCAP Proficiency Averages

Director Tommy Arnold – The Tennessee Department of Education released statewide TCAP proficiency averages for third and fourth grade language arts on June 13. The data showed a 0.5% increase for the state’s third graders, with approximately 41% scoring proficient on the state assessment. In contrast, Jefferson County’s scores demonstrated a 0.2% decline from the previous year for third graders, resulting in 38.2% proficiency.

The district utilizes multiple data points to understand student performance. The state provides a list of approved universal reading screeners for use throughout the year. Jefferson County Schools uses iReady to evaluate students three times each year. Our universal screener results for spring indicated that 65% of our students were on grade level.  Not all students reading on the third-grade level are able to demonstrate proficiency on end of the year third grade reading standards measured on the TCAP.  

The district has collaborated with schools and parents to ensure every student has a pathway to progress to the next grade. Students who did not score proficient had the opportunity to attend summer school and/or receive tutoring in fourth grade. Since the release of the assessment scores, district staff has evaluated the data and created a plan to improve performance moving forward.

The department also released fourth grade language arts results, showing the state’s average increased to 46% proficiency. Jefferson County’s score was 43.1%, a decline from the previous year’s fourth grade scores but a 4.7% increase for students moving from third to fourth grade. This cohort trends indicates that students are growing from one grade level to the next, which is a priority for the school district. 

I am proud of our teachers’ and students’ effort and success in achievement and growth over this past year. We will continue to grow students that come to us at various levels and abilities.