Austin ISD Students Struggle with Math, Reading Proficiency Varies

Austin, Texas – Austin Independent School District (AISD) students face challenges in mathematics, according to State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) scores. Reading proficiency varies, with sixth and seventh graders showing improvements, unlike other grades. Compared to pre-pandemic levels, math performance has worsened, while reading has improved.

“While we continue to see progress in other areas … it’s clear that math performance is not where students need it to be for success after graduation. Pandemic-induced disruptions to learning exacerbated students’ difficulties in mastering fundamental math concepts.”
-- Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath

AISD Superintendent Matias Segura downplayed the significance of STAAR, stating it's just one data point among many. Acknowledging the focus on literacy post-pandemic, Segura said the next step is improving numeracy. Utimately, he wants students to enjoy learning:

"We want our students to have fun and understand and enjoy learning… We want vibrant schools where students feel supported and the educational experience is fulfilling, but that doesn't always always translate to a high score on the STAAR test."
-- AISD Superintendent Matias Segura

University of Texas associate professor David DeMatthews cautioned against comparing year-to-year results, citing cohort changes and the redesigned STAAR. He also emphasized the broader societal issues influencing test scores, including poverty and systemic racism:

“Test scores often reflect broader issues within our society, including poverty and systemic racism… Students who do not have stable housing or access to reliable health care are more likely to struggle in school and ... on state assessments."
-- David DeMatthews, University of Texas

With adjusted curricula and ongoing support, AISD strives to improve academic outcomes, ensuring a positive and well-rounded education despite standardized test scores.