Pickens County Students Exceed State Averages on 2013 End-of-Course Exams

School District of Pickens County students posted strong scores on End-of-Course Exams in 2013, testing 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 81.3 percent in Algebra/Mathematics, 83.6 in Biology, 78.3 in English and 72.8 in U.S. History. The state averages in those subject areas are 80.6, 81.3, 77.9 and 72.7 respectively.

District scores improved slightly in Biology and U.S. History, while declining slightly in Algebra and English.

Also, the percentage of students who passed their exams improved from 2012 slightly in English (+0.6) and dramatically U.S History (+9), while declining slightly in Algebra (-0.7) and Biology (-1.2). The percent of students passing U.S. History increased from 53.2 percent to 62.2 percent.

“I’m proud of the gains made in some subject areas, particularly U.S. History,” said. Dr. Kelly Pew, SDPC Superintendent. “For many years, the U.S. History exam has been challenging, and the improvement in scores on that test are the result of hard work by our teacher and students. We will continue to review the data we receive from these tests to find the best ways to help children learn.”

“Our teachers work hard to make sure that students are prepared for these tests; however, they do not receive specific feedback from the state as to how students performed on certain standards. Having data to help guide instructional decisions is a very important part of the teaching and learning process,” said Mrs. Sharon Huff, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services.

“Last year, we implemented a system of benchmark tests to provide our teachers with feedback. We plan to continue our efforts with benchmark testing again this year. After students take the benchmark tests, our teachers will analyze their students’ results and collaborate with their colleagues to determine which teaching strategies and activities made a positive impact.”

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.

Scores from the district and each school are listed in the tables attached to this story.