News Summary
Memphis-Shelby County Schools has reported concerning TCAP results, revealing that over 76% of third graders did not meet proficiency standards. The district faces significant challenges, especially with the implications of a retention law. Despite a slight improvement in scores, statewide proficiency remains low. MSCS is implementing initiatives, including summer programs and retesting opportunities, to support struggling students and prioritize literacy improvement in hopes of reversing current trends.
Memphis
Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) revealed alarming academic results for its third graders in the recently released Spring 2023 TCAP data. The report, published on May 24, 2023, indicated that over 76% of third graders did not meet the required proficiency standards on the state assessments, highlighting significant challenges facing students in the district.
With approximately 8,500 third graders enrolled in MSCS, concerns are heightened due to the implications of a recent retention law. Under this law, third graders who fail the TCAP will have the opportunity to retake the test; however, students who still do not meet proficiency may be required to attend summer school or participate in tutoring programs in order to advance to the fourth grade.
In the English Language Arts (ELA) section of the TCAP, MSCS reported a 7% increase in proficiency among third graders compared to previous years. Additionally, there was a 7% decrease in the number of students scoring below expectations, suggesting that some progress is being made within the district despite the overall low proficiency rates.
Statewide, only 40% of third graders in Tennessee achieved proficiency, while 60% were classified as non-proficient. This indicates that the challenges faced by Memphis students are part of a broader trend affecting the state. It is important to note that the Tennessee Department of Education’s raw data does not include adjustments for special education students, English language learners, and those enrolled for less than half the academic year, potentially skewing the insights drawn from this analysis.
The cohort currently attending third grade, referred to as the class of 2032, began their education in 2019. Unfortunately, this trajectory has been disrupted significantly by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has negatively impacted early educational experiences for many students in this group.
Focused Support Initiatives
Interim Superintendent Toni Williams conveyed optimism regarding the educational gains noted among the class of 2032 and stressed the importance of continued support moving forward. To assist struggling students, MSCS has proactively auto-enrolled approximately 5,300 students from District-managed schools into the Summer Learning Academy, which is scheduled to run from June 20 to July 19. Enrollment is primarily based on winter diagnostic scores, ensuring that those most at risk receive additional help.
Students who did not meet proficiency benchmarks on the ELA portion of the TCAP will have the opportunity to retest starting May 31. Families are also given the option to appeal test results between May 28 and June 28. If parents choose to submit an appeal, they will need to provide consent, and district personnel can assist in this process. However, it is important to note that students who appeal their results must commit to a year-long tutoring program in the fourth grade, regardless of the outcome of their appeal.
Commitment to Literacy Improvement
To address the educational challenges and improve literacy outcomes, district officials are prioritizing literacy initiatives within MSCS. The emphasis on enhancing literacy skills is seen as essential for bolstering overall educational achievement in the district and ensuring that students are better equipped for future academic endeavors.
The release of the Spring 2023 TCAP data has sparked urgent conversations among educators, administrators, and families regarding the academic future of students in Memphis. While the results underscore the significant hurdles that remain, the district’s targeted interventions signal a focused effort to reverse these trends and provide necessary support for its youngest learners.
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Additional Resources
- Commercial Appeal: Third Grade Reading Scores
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- WREG: MCS Students May Be in Summer School
- Google Search: Third Grade Retention Law
- Local Memphis: MSCS Third Graders TCAP Reading Retention
- Google Scholar: Third Grade Reading Scores
- Fox 13 Memphis: TN Students Retention Details
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
