Tests in two of the four subject areas, English language arts and Science, are now fully aligned with the state’s new curriculum, the Georgia Performance Standards (GPS).  With increased rigor, the new GPS was rated among the top five curricula in the nation, according to an independent study conducted by the Fordham Foundation.  Despite the higher expectations, students in Troup County performed well with both Callaway High School and LaGrange High School exceeding the state average in English language arts, and LaGrange High School exceeding the state in science.  Because of the new curriculum and changes in score reporting, comparisons cannot be made between this year’s scores and previous scores in these two areas.

Mathematics, which is still tested on the Quality Core Curriculum, continues to be a challenge for Troup County students.  While LaGrange High School exceeded the state in math scores, the system average is two points below the state.  In a three year average, the state improved math scores by one percentage point, while Troup County decreased by one point.  Continued efforts are being made across the district to identify programs and initiatives to support math instruction.

As the state phases in the new curriculum for social studies, the graduation test is currently a combination of QCC and GPS.  Troup County continues to close the gap with the state, coming within one percentage point of the state average.  Both Callaway and LaGrange High School matched the state score.  As a transitional test moving to the new curriculum, score comparisons cannot be made with previous tests.

“The tests show that our teachers have a good grasp of the new standards, and student mastery of the material is occurring as a result,” said Dr. Tonia Contorno, secondary curriculum director.

The GHSGT also includes a writing segment, which was administered to students in September with results posted in the fall.  Georgia students are required to pass all five sections of the test in order to graduate.  Opportunities to retake portions of the test are offered over the summer and during a student’s senior year.  Students received individual test results last week.