Shelton Improves Reading Scores in CAPT Test

Shelton's 10th-graders improved in reading, but fell slightly in the other three Connecticut Academic Performance Test categories.

The CAPT tests 10th-graders. At Shelton High School, the percentage of students testing at or above proficiency fell slightly in math, writing and science.

Schools Supt. Freeman Burr said there has been a "positive upward trend in overall scores across the board" in Shelton over the last several years.

"2013 CAPT results show increases and CMT results show decreases," the state concluded.

Burr also noted that he has only had to time for a preliminary review of the data because it was released a month late. The Board of Education will convene again to discuss the results.

For more CAPT data, go here.

State education officials said the 2013 CAPT results were "generally positive."

"Performance increased slightly in mathematics, science and reading, but decreased slightly in writing. Compared to the baseline year of 2007, student performance increased in all content areas.  Student performance data on the CMT show decreases in all grades and content areas as compared to last year.  In most cases however, CMT data demonstrates a marked improvement over the baseline year of 2006.

“Over the past two years, thanks to Governor Malloy and the General Assembly, we have taken significant steps to enhance public education in our state.  And there are initial signs that our signature reforms are working.  We are encouraged by the bright spots, especially gains on the CAPT test and in the Commissioner’s Network this year, though it remains clear that major work lies ahead to ensure that each student is prepared for success in college and career,” said State Department of Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor.  

“It is increasingly apparent that our legacy tests are out of sync with the new Common Core State Standards.  That’s one of the reasons why we’re enabling districts to accelerate their testing transition, permitting districts to opt in to Common Core-aligned assessments this year.  We must continue to pursue critical reforms – implementing the Common Core, evaluating and supporting teachers and administrators, and turning around our lowest performing schools – with sustained focus in order to elevate overall performance and close the achievement gap.”