Tempe Union School District Reviews Four Years of ACT Student Performance Data

The Tempe Union High School District (TUHSD) Governing Board convened on September 3, 2025, to discuss critical updates on student performance and testing procedures, highlighting both achievements and areas for improvement.

A significant focus of the meeting was the administration of the ACT test, which has been in place since 2022. The district reported that overall student performance has remained stable over the past four years, with TUHSD consistently exceeding state averages in various subjects. For instance, the average scale score for math is 19.3, surpassing the state benchmark of 19, while reading scores show that several schools have reached or exceeded the ACT benchmark of 22.

The board also addressed the importance of teacher training and support during testing. A new "testing chat" system has been implemented to assist teachers in real-time, allowing them to report issues and receive immediate help during the testing process. This initiative aims to enhance the testing environment and ensure that students can complete their assessments without unnecessary interruptions.

Data presented during the meeting revealed that 53% of students achieved proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA), with variations across schools. While some schools showed improvement, others, like Marcos, experienced dips in performance. The district is actively working to address these disparities, particularly among English language learners and students with disabilities, who have shown lower proficiency rates.

In terms of growth metrics, the district is utilizing a new approach to evaluate student progress over time. This method assesses individual student growth against historical performance, allowing educators to identify areas needing additional support. The board noted that while the district is making expected growth overall, certain schools are lagging behind, prompting a need for targeted interventions.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue monitoring student performance and refining educational strategies to ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed. As the district prepares for future assessments, the focus remains on fostering an environment that supports both proficiency and growth, ultimately benefiting the entire student body.