Thursday, September 28, 2000
How to read the scores
Kentucky public schools are graded on a combination of test scores
and other indicators of success, such as drop-out rates, attendance
and how many graduates go on to college.
Called the Commonwealth Accountability Testing System, the
information is combined to get a school's total score.
Scores range from 0 to 140. The goal is to get to 100 by 2014.
Scores include results of a statewide test, given last April to
students in grades 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 12 in reading, math,
science, social studies, writing, arts and practical living.
Starting in 2002, a national test will also be included in the
formula.
For the current year, the state set a goal for each school, based
on 1997 and 1998 test scores.
If a school's score meet or exceed that goal, the school is
designated for rewards.
If a school's score is lower than its goal, the school is
designated as needing assistance. Schools in the bottom third of the
assistance category are subject to a state audit.
If a school shows little improvement or decline, the school is
classified as maintaining.
High schools that qualified for rewards but had a drop-out rate of
8 percent or higher were classified as maintaining.
Return to test scores
