By Shannon K. Jones
Staff Reporter
BRIMLEY - The old adage that female students are better at reading and writing than males was proven true at Brimley Schools as an analysis of the 2004-2005 Michigan Educational Assessment Program was released earlier this month. Male students scored better on math, science and social studies assessments.
"This is interesting data," said Brimley Superintendent Alan Kantola.
In the 11th grade, female students outperformed males in almost every way, not a surprise to Kantola.
"Just look at the honors banquet, it's dominated by females," he said.
Data was also given comparing Native students to white students - those results were unexpected. Native students in grade 11 outperformed white students in math, science and social studies tests while white students scored higher in reading and writing. In 4th and 5th grade classrooms, white students scored higher on math, social studies and writing tests and Native students did better in science and reading. In 7th and 8th grade, white students scored better in math, science and social studies while Natives scored better in reading.
"I spoke with fellow superintendents in the area who said this hasn't occurred in their district," said Kantola. "The one thing that jumps out at me is writing. The Native American students aren't doing as well in writing."
While Kantola admits this discrepancy has gained his attention, he said a number of factors must be taken into account before any conclusion can be made.
"These students take eight tests on a certain day," said Kantola. "Is this a pattern? We can't be sure. This data will have to be compared over a number of years for a more definitive answer. But if there is a problem with our curriculum, we'll remedy it."
The next round of MEAP testing begins in October with results expected in the early spring.
