NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Tennessee Department of Education released 2020-21 Spring TCAP district-level results Wednesday, which officials say showed an expected decline in proficiency in students.
Because of the pandemic, the tests are only being used by school districts to gauge students' development since many spent last year learning virtually.
As expected, scores are down. Metro Nashville Public Schools Director Dr. Adrienne Battle spoke about the results. She said leaders in the school aren't worried and are driven to improve this school year.
"Statewide, we saw the economically disadvantaged students were hit hardest by the pandemic and saw the greatest declines. In urban school districts like Metro Nashville, Shelby, tended to have the highest proportion of economically disadvantaged students in the state," said Dr. Battle.
Scores show that MNPS and the state as a whole a saw roughly 6% decrease in reading proficiency last year.
"Since the start of the pandemic, Tennessee’s districts, schools, educators, and families have worked incredibly hard to ensure students continue learning, and now a brand-new school year has just begun,” said Commissioner Penny Schwinn stated in a press release. “While we expected declines in student proficiency, the data from our statewide assessment creates an opportunity to make more informed, strategic decisions and investments that are best for accelerating the achievement of our students. Tennessee is well prepared for the work that lies ahead, and we will continue to put our kids first.”
In an effort to bounce back, MNPS issued the "Back to Basics to Make Forward Progress and Success" program.
It includes additional staff to give individualized support, paid planning days to strengthen instruction and more tutoring. With it, they hope to ensure high-quality education for every student.
