Posted: 7/7/04

Peterson reports on test scores

Southwest Junior High School students continue to make progress on state-mandated Basic Skills Tests, but more work is needed, Principal Marc Peterson reported to the ISD 831 School Board on July 1. Peterson updated the board on testing results as part of the schoolís annual student achievement report. Peterson said the schoolís Grade 7 students scored at the 88th percentile on this yearís reading test, but were at the 71st percentile in math. Reading scores continue to shine, but math scores have reached a plateau, Peterson said, pointing to the need for more work in the math area. ìWeíre average,î Peterson said. ìWe donít want to be average.î While math is under evaluation for improvement, Peterson said one reason for the success in reading is the schoolís four-year emphasis on reading through the daily RAP (reading appreciation program). Students and staff set aside time each morning to read. ìIt doesnít have to be that complicated,î he said.

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