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Waunakee report: academic indicators improving since pandemic but ACT results remain a concern
Summary
District administrators presented five‑year trend data showing recovery and growth in many areas after the pandemic, while ACT scores lag and subgroup gaps persist; AP participation and pass rates were cited as strengths.
Dr. Brown, a district administrator, told the committee Jan. 29 that five‑year trend reporting shows “positive momentum” across most academic indicators since the pandemic, but that ACT results constitute an exception the district plans to address.
The presentation included multi‑year charts for graduation rates, proficiency and growth measures. Dr. Brown said the district’s top‑line metrics are generally stable or improving, growth measures were “stable to improving” and Advanced Placement participation and pass rates reached record highs. He described the ACT situation as “a tale of two cities”: better‑prepared students are near pre‑pandemic levels while less‑prepared students lag behind their pre‑pandemic cohorts.
Presenters emphasized gaps between student subgroups. The report disaggregated results for multicultural students, low‑income students, students with disabilities and, where data permitted, English‑language learners. Dr. Brown and other staff said closing those gaps is a central priority even where overall indicators are positive.
The group discussed technical influences on state assessments. Presenters noted that Wisconsin’s Forward exam cut scores and scale changes affect year‑to‑year comparability; they contrasted that with the ACT’s comparability over time. Committee members asked about college admissions expectations for ACT and test‑optional policies; presenters advised families to consider institutional medians when deciding whether to submit scores.
No formal votes were taken on policies. Presenters said they will continue monitoring cohort performance, support students in college‑and‑career pathways and return with updated reports; board members suggested broader public communication of positive trends.
