Southern Wisconsin Times

The State of Wisconsin has published the 2023-24 results for the Wisconsin Student Assessment System (WSAS), which includes data from the Wisconsin Forward Exam and the ACT Exams. These assessments are crucial for state and federal accountability and contribute to school and district report cards expected later this fall. It is important to note that the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction adjusted the proficiency measurement, or 'cut score,' this year, so comparisons with previous years should be made cautiously.

In Janesville, students in grades 3-5 demonstrated an increase in math proficiency on the Forward Exam, surpassing the state average by 4 percent. Fifth graders showed the most significant improvement, being 5 percent above the state average. English Language Arts (ELA) scores for grades 3-5 matched the state average, with fourth graders achieving a 2 percent higher score than their peers statewide. Additionally, fourth-grade students exceeded state averages in Social Studies and Science.

Middle school students in Janesville scored below state averages in ELA and Math. However, eighth graders made notable progress compared to last year, closing the gap with a 3 percentage point increase toward reaching state averages. The district's overall ACT composite score remained unchanged at 17.8 but was slightly below state averages across several subjects.

“While we are pleased that our students’ scores on the ACT remain steady, our goal is to see improvement in the composite score,” stated Chris Medenwaldt, Director of Secondary Education. “These types of assessments help us create plans for growth and improvement, and to modify strategies that focus on curriculum, assessment, and instructional practices geared toward college and career readiness skills for students.”

The Forward Exam assesses all students from grades 3-8 and grade 10—though only testing Social Studies in grade 10—while all eleventh-grade students take the ACT Exam. A small number of students with significant cognitive disabilities took alternate exams known as Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM).

“As a district, we use WSAS data in conjunction with other data to develop our school and district improvement plans,” said Allison DeGraaf, Director of Learning and Innovation. “Our district goals are to improve student achievement in reading and language arts, mathematics, and improve student attendance rates. We are pleased to see student growth on these tests but are always looking for ways to improve student outcomes."

For further information about assessments in Wisconsin or specific data from districts or schools within Janesville School District compared to prior years or statewide averages, resources such as WISEdash data portal can be accessed online.