Standardized test scores on the rise in EBR, La.

The percentage of students who scored at “basic” and above on standardized tests went up in 42 of Louisiana’s public school districts, including East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Ascension, Central and Zachary. Statewide, 66% of students earned a basic or above, up 1 percentage point from 2010. East Baton Rouge scores were up 1 percentage point, to 57%. John Dilworth, East Baton Rouge superintendent, says he was “encouraged” by the growth he saw, particularly the 7-percentage-point jump in scores by fourth-graders. Zachary had the highest-performing students in the state, with 85% scoring at basic or above. Livingston and Central were tied for fourth best, with 79% getting a basic score. “These results validate that the reforms and initiatives being implemented are paying off for our students—in this case, several thousand more children are better prepared to succeed in their future academic and life pursuits,” says Ollie Taylor, acting state superintendent of education. For a link to the scores, click here.