SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. (October 11, 2019) – Recently, the California Department of Education released the 2018-2019 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) results for students in grades three through eight and grade eleven. A look at the numbers over the past five years shows that South Pasadena Unified (SPUSD) has experienced a seven percent gain in the number of students meeting and exceeding English Language Arts (ELA) standards (84 percent total) and a four percent gain in the number of students meeting and exceeding Math standards (79 percent total).

 

     “Our students continue to excel,” said South Pasadena Unified School District’s Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services Christiane Gervais. “This level of academic excellence is indicative of the dedication and efforts of our students, teachers, and staff as well as the commitment of our parents to continuous learning.”

 

     Because CAASPP tests are given statewide, they provide an opportunity to measure the skills of all students against the same academic standards in the same way, and the results provide information schools can use to improve teaching and learning. Given on-line, the tests are computer-adaptive, allowing more precise measurement of individual skills.

 

     “We are one of the most diverse high-performing districts,” said Superintendent Geoff Yantz.  “SPUSD is moving all our students forward according to the state standards while also addressing students’ social-emotional needs. State test scores are only one measure of how much our students are learning.”

 

     In August 2019, parents and guardians received individual student score reports through the Aeries Parent Portal. The reports detail an overall score for each subject and information for how each child performed in different skill areas associated with English language arts/literacy and mathematics.  If a child tested in 2017 and 2018 the score report presents three years of data, which allows parents and guardians to view a child’s progress over time. More information about CAASPP testing including videos and guides to understanding the score reports and assessments may be found here: http://bit.ly/CAASPPtesting.

 

Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,800 students within five schools including three elementary schools, one middle school and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California.  Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation of providing high quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state and national level.  The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs and booster clubs.