6th-Graders Do Well On Achievement Test

Spokane students whizzed past the national average on a sixth grade achievement test this year.

They stumbled only in spelling, with below-average scores - an ongoing problem, according to a report released Wednesday.

“We’re well above the national averages, with the exception of spelling,” said Joe Kinney, testing coordinator for Spokane School District 81.

Based on an average percentile rank score of 50, Spokane sixth-graders taking the Comprehensive Tests of Basic Skills did best in math, at 62. Their lowest score was in spelling, at 45.

Other scores: 59 in reading; 56 in language; 64 in study skills; 60 in science; and 60 in social studies.

Scores varied dramatically from school to school, with Hutton Elementary leading the pack with an overall score of 86, and Arlington Elementary trailing at 32.

Educators are hoping a new program focusing on tougher words will boost spelling scores.

, DataTimes