Norwalk test scores improve, biggest gains in science

NORWALK, Conn. — Norwalk’s test scores went up in every subject this year, according to new state data.

The numbers come from Connecticut’s Performance Index. The state uses this score to track how students are doing in three subjects: English language arts (reading and writing), math and science. Scores run from 0 to 100. The state wants every district to reach 75. Norwalk’s district-wide scores rose from last year in every subject:

• English language arts: 62.2 to 62.3
• Math: 58.6 to 59.0
• Science: 57.3 to 58.8

Science had the biggest jump, up 1.5 points. Math rose 0.4 points, and English rose just 0.1 point. Even with the gains, Norwalk trails Connecticut’s average in every subject this year:

• English language arts: Norwalk 62.3, state 65.0
• Math: Norwalk 59.0, state 61.7
• Science: Norwalk 58.8, state 63.1

The state also improved this year, so Norwalk didn’t close the gap much. In English and math, Norwalk trails the state by close to 3 points, about the same gap as last year. In science, Norwalk actually gained ground: its score grew faster than the state’s, cutting the gap from 5.3 points to 4.3 points.

Figures from Connecticut’s Performance Index are based on results from the state’s standardized tests. Full district-level data is available through the state’s EdSight data portal.