Tougher Reading, Math Standards Mean Lower Test Scores in Muskego-Norway

Use Patch's interactive database to see the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examinations scores in Elmbrook and other area districts for the last three years.

Students in the Muskego-Norway School District saw lower scores in statewide math and reading tests this year, but those changes are almost entirely due to tough new standards that kicked in this year.

In Muskego-Norway, 44.7 percent of the students who took the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examinations in November 2012 scored at proficient or advanced in reading. That's compared to 91.9 percent who hit that mark in 2011. The 2012-13 results were released last week.

In math, 64 percent of the Muskego-Norway students were proficient or better this year, compared to 90 percent last year.

While this year's numbers are lower than last year, they're still significantly higher than the statewide figure of 36.2 percent proficient or better in reading and 48.1 percent in math.

Drops in reading and math scores took place throughout the state this year as Wisconsin raised the benchmark scores needed for students to reach the proficient or advanced performance levels. The new college and career readiness proficiency levels are based on the National Assessment of Educational Progress.

"We are proud of the accomplishments students have demonstrated over the years and are pleased with the strong results," Tammy Gibbons, Director of School Performance stated in a release from the district. "Talented teachers, excellent classroom instruction, hardworking students and parent involvement support the success seen in Muskego-Norway’s student achievement.

"As we continue to work toward the goal of ensuring that all students meet or exceed establishedstandards, we remain steadfast to our continuous improvement plan and work to maximize opportunities for student success," she added.

More than 430,000 public school students took the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examinations in November 2012.