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 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?

Passing rates were lower among low-income students in 2007. Just 36% of the region’s low-income students met or exceed state standards, compared to nearly three-quarters of all other students. Only Saratoga and Schenectady counties exceed the statewide passing rate for low-income students of 43%, while Rensselaer had the lowest percentage of low-income students to pass the exam, at 27%.

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.