Press Release

For Immediate Release

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Linda Dudderar, Chief Academic Officer, 301-475-5511, ext. 108

MSA SCIENCE RESULTS

SMCPS EXCEEDS STATE AVERAGE

Ranked 7^th in Elementary and 8^th in Middle School

LEONARDTOWN, MD -- St. Mary’s County Public Schools                                                             (SMCPS) exceeded the state average in the recently released Science portion of the Maryland State Assessment (MSA).  SMCPS’ fifth grade students rank seventh in the state among the 24 counties.  SMCPS’ eighth grade students are eighth in the state.

Students in grades 5 and 8 take the Science MSA in the spring.  The fifth grade test assesses science concepts from grades 4 and 5; the eighth grade test measures concepts taught in grades 6, 7, and 8.  Science MSA scores are not factored into Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) calculations.

“These achievements can be directly attributed to the alignment of our instruction with the Science State Curriculum, rigorous expectations, and an inquiry approach to instruction,” stated Dr. Michael Martirano, superintendent of schools.  “We recognize the continued efforts of our outstanding teachers to support all students toward high levels of achievement.  SMCPS continues to be a very high achieving school system as measured on another important state test.  We are proud of our students and our staff.”