By Dr. Daryl Hagan, Superintendent of Schools
On July 14, the Indiana State Board of Education meeting marked the annual release of ISTEP+ and ILEARN results for Hoosier students. I agree with Dr. Katie Jenner, Secretary of Education, when she recently stated, “I want to preface my note to you today by emphasizing that students are so much more than a single data point. As educators, we’re focused on helping students build the foundational knowledge and skills each year to set them on a path towards maximum success (and options) for their future...whether they pursue employment, enlistment, or enrollment.” We understand the pandemic affected all of our students. Despite the challenges, Catholic schools stayed committed to the mission of forming Disciples of Christ while providing a quality education.
When reviewing the results of the summative assessment we have much to celebrate while understanding we also have continued areas for growth for each student we serve. For the purpose of this article, I want to highlight a few areas where students excelled during the 2020-2021 school year.
ILEARN Results for students in grades 3-8
- Diocese of Evansville collectively had the highest English (ELA) score in the state. (71% with the state average being 41%)
- Diocese of Evansville collectively had the third highest science score in the state. (69% with the state average being 38%)
- Diocese of Evansville collectively had the fourth highest math score in the state. (67% with the state average being 37%)
- Diocese of Evansville collectively had the second highest social studies score in the state. (77% with the state average being 39%)
- Diocese of Evansville collectively had the second highest overall score (ELA/Math) in the state with 59%.
- Holy Redeemer Catholic School had the second highest English (ELA) score in the state with 86%.
- Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School ranked seventh in the state in English (ELA) with 84%.
- St. Benedict Cathedral School ranked ninth in the state in English (ELA) with 83%.
- St. Matthew Catholic School ranked tenth in the state in English (ELA) with 82%.
- St. Wendel Catholic School ranked ninth in the state in math with 86%.
- Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School ranked second in the state in combined ELA and math scores with 75%.
- St. Wendel Catholic School ranked sixth in the state in combined ELA and math scores with 74%.
- St. Matthew Catholic School ranked eighth in the state in combined ELA and math scores with 74%.
A heartfelt thank you to our 6,355 students and our 550+ employees who excelled last year during the pandemic. I look forward to the upcoming school year and the new heights you will reach! One final note, if you have an interest in Catholic schools for your child, contact your nearest school to learn more.