School board members around the state are committed to ensuring that all students have the skills they need to earn a high school diploma, Washington State School Directors’ Association Executive Director Martharose Laffey said today.

Laffey’s comments came in response to a preliminary report on the results of the 10th-grade Washington Assessment of Student Learning, which was administered earlier this spring. Passage of the 10th-grade WASL in reading, writing and mathematics is one of four new state-level requirements for high school graduation. The requirements take effect with this year’s sophomore class.

Scores released Thursday by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Terry Bergeson show that students made gains in all areas, with strong improvements in reading and writing. Math remains a challenge, however, with just over half receiving a passing score.

"We are delighted to see such significant progress in reading and writing," said Laffey. "At the same time, we recognize there are real difficulties ahead in getting students to standard in mathematics."

Laffey noted that the results will trigger the delivery of funds that school districts can use to provide targeted assistance to students who are struggling to meet standard. The funds, approved by the Legislature earlier this year, can be used to offer intensive instruction through programs such as summer school, before- or after-school classes, test preparation seminars and in-school or out-of-school tutoring.

"School boards, administrators and staff in each district are crafting learning opportunities that will best fit the needs of their students who did not pass on the first try," said Laffey. "The education community is working hard at all levels to make sure these students don’t give up on completing high school."

Laffey noted that WSSDA is forming a special task force aimed at helping school boards be more strategic in improving student achievement. The task force will focus on how boards can use data to concentrate resources where they will be most effective in keeping all students on track from kindergarten through high school.

"Our mission goes beyond getting kids to pass exams," said Laffey. "We want to ensure that all students have the skills they need to earn a high school diploma and to go on to build a successful life."