Jefferson City News

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has released preliminary results from the 2024-25 statewide Grade Level and End-of-Course (EOC) assessments. The data, presented at the August 12 State Board of Education meeting, covers required state assessments in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics for grades 3-8, Science for grades 5 and 8, as well as EOCs in English II, Algebra I, Biology, and Government. Results from optional EOC tests in American History, Algebra II, English I, Geometry, and Physical Science were also included.

Missouri schools reported a 98 percent participation rate in these assessments. The preliminary data indicates an increase in Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) scores compared to the previous year.

According to DESE, most grade levels saw slight improvements in ELA scores except for grade 4. Mathematics scores improved overall but declined in grades 4 and 5. Science scores increased for both grades 5 and 8 over last year’s results. The largest gains were observed in grade 8 Science and Algebra I.

“This year’s data shows that Missouri is moving in the right direction,” Commissioner of Education Dr. Karla Eslinger said. “There is still work to do but the trendline shows slow and steady progress. We must continue to encourage our students to excel. As we begin a new school year, it is an opportunity for us to focus our work so that all students have access to high-quality programs.”

Additional details about the preliminary assessment data can be found in materials presented to the State Board of Education. District and school-level data will be made available when finalized in November.