The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) has released the latest round of test scores, and over half of Marion County’s 46 public schools experienced a 10% increase or more in academic achievements.
Marion County Public Schools views the increased test scores as evidence that teacher decisions, student actions, curriculum, programs, and more – all part of the district’s Achieve 2026 Strategic Plan – are working despite setbacks that have been caused by the pandemic.
Superintendent Dr. Diane Gullett said, “We are pleased our students maintained or achieved even more in the classroom in a year marked by a continuing pandemic. These scores will help us equip our teachers with sharper-focused curriculum, involve our parents and families more, and elevate students to even higher levels of success.”
Marion County students improved in overall Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) math proficiency by two percentage points, earning a 47%. The state, which improved by three percentage points, earned a 55%.
Scores from fourth-grade students showed the largest increase with an eight percentage-point gain in English Language Arts and a ten percentage-point gain in math. Marion County students made their largest proficiency gain on the Civics End-of-Course exam, jumping six percentage points to 61%.
By state standards, students reach proficiency when they achieve a Level 3 or higher on the Florida Standards Assessment, which is now in its last year. Regular progress monitoring will replace the FSA starting in August.
The District and school grades issued by FLDOE are expected later this summer.