Talbot County Public Schools (TCPS) reported a slight decline in overall student proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA) during the 2024-2025 school year, with a 1.9% decrease compared to the previous year. The data, presented during a recent work session, highlighted varying performance trends across different grade levels. Notably, while fourth-grade students showed significant improvement, grades three and five experienced a decrease in proficiency rates.

The presentation detailed three years of ELA assessment data, revealing that 45.4% of TCPS students assessed last year were proficient in ELA. The most significant declines were observed in grades five and eight, while grades three and four demonstrated the greatest increases in proficiency over the same period. Specifically, TCPS outperformed the state average in growth for third graders, achieving an 8.6% increase compared to the state's 2% growth, and a 6.1% increase for fourth graders, surpassing the state's 3% gain.

The discussion emphasized the importance of comparing different student cohorts rather than tracking the same group over time. This approach allows for a clearer understanding of overall trends and growth within the school system. TCPS officials acknowledged the efforts of teachers and administrators in enhancing early literacy, which has contributed to the positive trends in the early grades.

In addition to overall proficiency rates, the meeting also addressed performance among specific student populations. While there were slight increases in proficiency for Black students and those identifying as two or more races, other groups saw declines.

As TCPS continues to analyze these results, the focus remains on fostering growth and improving literacy outcomes for all students, with a commitment to addressing the disparities highlighted in the data. The board's investment in early literacy initiatives appears to be yielding positive results, setting a foundation for future academic success.