What does this measure?

The percent of low-income and all other students who scored at level 3 or above—meeting or exceeding the state standard—on the New York State Grade 4 Math exam. The test is scored by placing a student’s performance in one of four levels.

Why is this important?

Early development of mathematics concepts provides the basis for mastery of problem solving and computation skills.

How is the Greater Capital Region performing?

In 2007, 66% of low-income students in the region passed the exam, compared to 88% of all other fourth-graders. The disparity in passing rates was greatest in Schenectady County, where the passing rate of low-income students was 50% less than all other fourth-graders. However, passing rates of low-income students have been increasing in all counties and were nearing the three-quarters mark before the tests were revised in 2006.

Notes about the data

The tests were revised for the 2006 administration as the federal No Child Left Behind requirement to test all children in 3rd through 8th grades took effect. Therefore, results prior to 2006 are not comparable to 2006 and later. Students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch are considered low-income.