SPS releases 2015-16 test scores

Sidney Public Schools (SPS) released the scores for the 2015-16 NeSA testing. NeSA stands for Nebraska State Accountability and is the main state test taken by all Nebraska students in grades 3-11.

Superintendent Jay Ehler said the subjects students are tested on are reading, writing, math and science, with writing only tested in grades 4, 8, and 11 and science is only tested in grades 5, 8 and 11.

Recently released results for the tests completed last year show Sidney students were above the state average in 16 of the 20 areas tested.

“Sidney students traditionally do well on the tests with usually more than half of our students performing above the Nebraska state average,” Ehler said.

“Making the comparison to other schools across the state is one thing, but more importantly we like to track growth for all grades. In other words, we look at our third grade scores then we track them each year to see if students are improving. For example, if we have 50 percent of our students meet the state standard in third grade we hope to see more than that the next year and continue on throughout their time in SPS,” Ehler said.

NeSA is tested every April, the test is based on Nebraska State Standards which are reviewed every seven years for each subject area.

“The tests change but they are created with the same standards in mind,” Ehler said.

Nine times out of 10 Sidney students compare better each year, this is a testament to the teacher’s hard work and talent Ehler said.

“It also shows that our principals have the ability to identify good teaching and foster quality instruction. I compliment the parents and their students as well because so many of our students come to us from parents that care about education,” Ehler said.

Ehler said SPS strives to go beyond testing to help create well rounded students.

“State tests are one thing that measures success in a school district but we really do try and focus on the whole child so students are equipped with many skills when they leave SPS,” Ehler said.

Statewide results are currently available online at http://www.education.ne.gov/nesaintial/Search.aspx. Specific Sidney results can be searched from there.