And each school also scored at least an 80, out of a possible 140, on one or more of the seven subject areas on the state test. More than 400 schools met these criteria, so the state chose one school from each of its eight regions to visit. It also posted high marks in social studies and math. School staff started some new strategies last year, after disappointing results on previous tests. Teachers follow state curriculum standards to develop their lessons, assuring that students know the material likely to show up on the state test.
Students take practice tests, which feature questions from old tests.
Every week, students practice answering essay questions, which make up two-thirds of the state test. After the teachers grade the essays, they go to Superintendent Bill Brown for review. Principal Isaac Weldon said. When it's time for the real thing, students know how to handle it. Performing well on the state tests is emphasized all year.