Dolton 149 Students Make Significant Reading, Math Gains on State Test (Calumet City, IL) — Students in Dolton School District 149 have made significant increases in reading and math performance on a key state test, according to district officials.
Student results on the 2024 Illinois Assessment of Readiness test compared to 2019 mark both a recovery from the learning disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and real reading and math growth from before the public health crisis that began in 2020.
According to the 2024 IAR test results, despite earlier experienced learning loss, there has been a steady increase in students meeting or exceeding grade level standards. The percentage of Dolton students that met or exceeded grade level in English Language Arts grew to 14.5% in 2024 compared to pre-covid’s highest performance of 12.7% in 2019. Likewise in math, the percentage of students who met or exceeded grade level in 2024 increased to a post pandemic record 6% compared to just 4.8% in 2019. These improvements show that Dolton 149 students have not only recovered some lost ground but also surpassed their pre-pandemic performance levels in those areas.
“This incredible growth in student achievement is a testament to the resilience of our students and the dedication of our teachers, administrators, and families,” said Superintendent Dr. Maureen White. “We are proud of this accomplishment and remain steadfast in our mission to provide every student with the tools they need to excel, and this success only motivates us further to ensure continued growth in math and reading skills for all students in Dolton 149.”
Dolton 149 Board of Education President Lolita Liggons praised the district’s educators and administrators.
“Our teachers and administrators have gone above and beyond to support our students and implement our strategic plan for improving the student experience resulting in our increase in test scores,” said President Liggons. “These results reflect their hard work, innovative teaching, and dedication to excellence. I could not be prouder of what we have achieved together as a district.”
The district’s approach to academic recovery included targeted interventions, expanded professional development for teachers, and enhanced support systems for students, according to Dr. White.
“Dolton 149 remains committed to continuing this upward trajectory by investing in high-quality instructional materials, data-driven teaching practices, and comprehensive support programs that meet the needs of all students,” said Dr. White.
Dolton 149 Students Make Significant Reading, Math Gains on State Test
