What does this measure?

The percent of students tested who scored at level 3 or above—meeting or exceeding the state standard—on the Grade 8 Math exam. The test is scored by placing a student’s performance in one of four levels.

Why is this important?

The middle school math examination serves as a checkpoint for high school preparation. Performance on this exam is a predictor of high school success in math.

How is the Greater Capital Region performing?

In 2008, 74% of eighth graders in the region passed the math exam, above the state rate of 70% and 10 points higher than in 2007. Since the exam was revised in 2006, regional pass rates have been higher than the state rates. Saratoga County had the highest performance in the region at 83%, while two-thirds of students in Rensselaer and Schenectady counties met or exceeded the state standards.

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.