Reading Test Scores Released - 1
By Erica Moore, Weakley County Schools Communications Director
Dresden, Tenn.–Weakley County Schools is again a stand-out in the state for achieving exceptional performance in the latest elementary reading scores. According to figures released from the Tennessee Department of Education’s 2023-24 Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) and End of Course (EOC) data, among elementary reading scores of 145 districts, Weakley County Schools ranked 11th in 3rd grade, 18th in 4th grade, and 12th in 5th grade scores.
Other highlights from the data released include an impressive 99% state testing participation rate. Weakley County Schools exceeded the state average passing rate on 23 of 24 tests. Additionally, the district’s 8th grade scores were impressive in all four subject areas as compared to the rest of the districts in Tennessee, ranking 23rd in ELA, 17th in Math, 12th in Science, and 21st in Social Studies. These stand-out rankings show that the incoming group of freshmen are well-prepared as they enter high school for the 2024-25 school year.
Assistant Director of Schools Betsi Foster attributed the success to the district’s focused and collaborative approach.
“For the last few years, we have been a team with leadership and focus. We have studied and researched methods, trained and coached staff, and taught and encouraged kids to read and love doing it. Congratulations to the kids and families of Weakley County Schools. This is big win,” Foster said.
These impressive results highlight the hard work and dedication of supervisors, teachers, staff members, principals, students and their families, instructional coaches, school board, and administration team. The district continues to prioritize the emphasis on addressing the needs of the whole child and meeting each student at their individual level of development.
Terri Stephenson, Supervisor of Elementary Instruction, praised the collective effort.
“Our teachers and instructional coaches have gone above and beyond to ensure our students have the resources and support they need to succeed. This achievement is a testament to their dedication and the hard work of students and their parents and guardians,” Stephenson acknowledged. “Achieving such high rankings speaks volumes about our district’s commitment to doing what’s best for each student.”
Director of Schools Jeff Cupples emphasized the importance of high-quality public education.
“We are so proud of the hard work of our students, faculty, and staff. Weakley County Schools continues to stand out as a district that is on the right track. Public education works, and our school system is making significant strides to ensure that students get high quality education with purpose, connection, and growth at the forefront. We’re eager to get back to work this August as a team to continue moving our district forward,” Cupples said.
For more on Weakley County Schools, visit weakleycountyschools.com.