Peabody Schools Below State Averages on MCAS

For the first time in recent memory, Peabody students' English Language Arts scores on the MCAS have also come in below the state average.

Results on the spring 2013 MCAS were recently released by the state, and at first glance, Peabody students have shown an overall decline in achieving proficient or higher scores in the three subject areas tested -- ELA, math and science/technology. (See 2012 results here)

ELA is down 3 points to 66 percent (the state average is 69 percent), math dropped by 2 points to 52 percent (the state average is 61 percent) and science by 4 points to 49 percent (the state average is 53 percent).

Likewise, Peabody students trailed state averages across all three subjects in the Needs Improvement category, but only were below average in the Warning/Failing category on math.

Superintendent Joe Mastrocola told School Committee members this week he and his staff were still pouring over the numbers and would have a detailed presentation in the coming weeks.

He did say packets would be sent out to parents by the end of the week.

Across the state, the average for ELA scores held steady, while math increased by 2 points and science/technology dipped 1 point from last year's scores. Students are tested on the MCAS between grades 3 and 10.

More detailed reporting on this year's MCAS scores to come.