Golden State Today

The California Department of Education (CDE) has published the 2023-24 statewide assessment results, indicating progress among K-12 students. The data shows improvements in closing equity gaps for socioeconomically disadvantaged, Black/African American, and Hispanic/Latino students.

The assessments include the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) and the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC). Despite an increase in high-need students from 63% to 65%, there was a rise in socioeconomically disadvantaged students meeting or exceeding standards: 1.5 percentage points in English language arts/literacy (ELA), 2.1 points in mathematics, and 1.4 points in science.

State Superintendent Tony Thurmond stated, "I commend California’s students and educators for their hard work and continued growth in academic achievement across the state." He emphasized ongoing efforts to support student development through resources like reading coaches and tutoring programs.

Linda Darling-Hammond, President of the State Board of Education, noted that recent investments by the Governor and Legislature are yielding positive outcomes. She said, "Today’s results suggest that California’s public schools are making encouraging gains in all of the key subject areas."

Several districts showed notable achievements:

- Benicia Unified saw a 7.7 percentage point increase in math proficiency.

- Compton Unified experienced increases of 2.5 points in ELA, 2.9 points in math, and 0.8 points in science.

- Fallbrook Union Elementary reported a rise of 5.2 points in ELA and 5.9 points in math.

- Los Angeles Unified had gains of 1.9 points in ELA, 2.3 points in math, and 1.8 points in science.

- Santa Maria Joint Union High School District improved by 10.4 points in ELA, 3.0 points in math, and 6.5 points in science.

These districts credit their success to targeted funding initiatives such as professional learning programs and expanded learning opportunities.

The CAASPP and ELPAC reports are available online for public access to further analyze these educational trends.