LANSING, Mich. — High school student scores improved
slightly on the Michigan Merit Examination in 2010, though only half the
test-takers achieved "proficient" scores in math and 65 percent in reading,
according to results issued by the Michigan Department of Education.
Scores showed that 65 percent of students statewide scored
at the "proficient" level or higher in reading; 44 percent in writing, 50
percent in math, 58 percent in science and 79 percent in social studies. Reading
showed the most improvement, up from 60 percent a year ago; social studies was
the only lower score, down from 81 percent.
"Proficient" means the student has a basic understanding of
the subject content, State Superintendent of Instruction Michael Flanagan said
in a press release issued by the department. He said the state is beginning to
see results of the new high school graduation requirements that added more
college preparatory coursework.
The Battle Creek Enquirer reported mixed results in Battle
Creek area school districts.
After considerable improvement in 2009, Battle Creek Public
Schools' scores declined in every subject area, the Enquirer reported. The district
lagged behind the state average by at least 20 percentage points in every
subject. The largest gap was in reading, where only 36 percent of students in
the district were proficient or better.
Harper Creek Community Schools and Lakeview School District
both saw double-digit increases in reading, the Enquirer reported.
SOURCES:
The Battle Creek Enquirer, "MME scores yield mixed results,"
July 23, 2010
Michigan Department of Education, "Spring 2010 Michigan
Merit Exam Statewide Public Results."
FURTHER READING:
Michigan Education Digest, "Michigan Adopts National
Standards," June 22, 2010