What does this measure?

The percent of students tested who scored at level 3 or above--meeting or exceeding the state standard--on the state Grade 4 English exam, broken down by student subgroup. The test is scored by placing a student's performance in one of four levels.

Why is this important?

Early reading skills are critical to a successful school experience and a productive work life.

How is the region performing?

In 2022, 22% of low-income students in the region passed the exam, compared to 34% of all fourth-graders. That was similar to the state (excluding NYC) rate of 23% of low-income students. Sullivan County had the lowest passing rate for economically disadvantaged students at 16% and Columbia had the highest (27%). Among districts, Northeast Central had no students achieving English proficiency. Eldred Central and Fallsburg Central had the next lowest shares of economically disadvantaged students achieving English proficiency at 6% and 8%. New Lebanon had the highest rate at 71%, followed by Garrison Union (67%).

Passing rates for English Language Learners and students with disabilities in the region were very low at 5% and 6%. In the region, English Language Learners in the Putnam Valley District had the highest proficiency rate (43%), followed by Ellenville Central at 33%. The highest passing rate for students with disabilities was in Onteora Central: 29%.

In the region, 18% of students in 3rd through 8th graders opted not to take the English exam. Rates varied across counties, from 6% in Sullivan and 9% in Columbia and Greene to 17% in Dutchess, 19% in Orange, 21% in Ulster and 27% in Putnam.

Notes about the data

Students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch are considered low-income. Test results for small groups of students were not disclosed to protect student privacy. Data for this indicator are expected to be released in the third quarter.