Achievement Gap Continues to Shrink

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

DOE Press Office 850-245-0413

Achievement Gap Continues to Shrink

~ Florida Hispanic students narrow the distance ~

Tallahassee, Fla., May 7, 2014 - Florida 12th grade Hispanic students' average scores in reading were significantly higher than the nation according to a National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) report issued today. In addition, the percentage of Florida's Hispanic students scoring at or above "Proficient" in reading was the highest of the 10 states that had sizable Hispanic populations. The new report highlights state-level results of grade 12 assessments in reading and math for 13 participating states.

"The report issued today shows that Florida's Hispanic students are definitely making progress toward closing the achievement gap," said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. "I am very proud of their hard work and thank Florida's teachers for their exceptional dedication to student success. We need to keep the momentum moving forward to ensure our children are prepared for college, a career and life."

Other highlights of the report include:

• The percentage of Florida's Hispanic 12th grade students performing at or above Proficient in reading improved from near the national average in 2009 to significantly higher than the nation in 2013. Thirty-four percent of Florida's Hispanic 12th graders scored at or above "Proficient" compared to only 22 percent nationwide.
• In 2013, the reading achievement gap between Florida's White and Hispanic 12th graders was narrower than the national gap, with an average score difference of 11 points compared to a 21-point gap nationally.
• The mathematics achievement gap between Florida's White and Hispanic 12th graders was narrower than the national gap, with an average score difference of 15 points compared to a 21-point gap nationally.
• The percentage of Florida's Hispanic 12th graders performing at or above Basic in reading was significantly higher than their national counterparts. Seventy-one percent of Florida Hispanic 12th graders scored at or above Basic compared to only 63 percent nationwide.

Known as The Nation's Report Card, NAEP measures what America's students know and can do in various subject areas.

For more information, visit National Assessment of Educational Progress.