No Significant Improvement In Student Math, Reading Tests

ST. PAUL (AP) - New statewide test results show students across Minnesota have seen no real improvement in math and reading scores.

It's the third year of stagnant test results, and Department of Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius says she's disappointed by the slow progress.

The results released Thursday also indicate the state has made virtually no progress in closing the achievement gap. In the 2015-2016 school year, black students failed math and reading tests at twice the rate of white students.

Cassellius says schools can't close the gap alone. She says factors that affect students outside of school must be addressed to improve children's chances for success. She says that includes ensuring families have access to high-quality childcare and early education, stable housing, fair wages and health care.