Urbandale reports gains on state assessments; ELA, math and science scores reach five-year highs

Urbandale Community School District officials reported measurable improvements in student proficiency on state assessments and other accountability measures during the board meeting.

The district’s English language arts proficiency reached 73.9 percent, up from 68.3 percent in 2022, and math proficiency rose to 70.9 percent from 66.3 percent. Science proficiency for grades five, eight and ten improved to 70.3 percent from 58.3 percent the previous year; administrators said these are the highest scores the district has seen in five years.

Superintendent Dr. Dutka told the board the District Career and Academic Plan (DCAP) score improved from 12 out of 36 last year to 31 out of 36 this year. Administrators said the district also met several goals on family, staff and teacher surveys and will provide a more detailed strategic-plan update in June.

Enrollment and registration figures presented to the board showed about 2,200 returning students have completed re-registration, 244 returning families have started but not finished the process, and 146 new students (including pre-K) are registered with 84 having started registration but not finished. Administrators said returning registration numbers help determine staffing needs.

Why it matters Improved proficiency rates and a stronger DCAP score bear directly on curriculum priorities, staffing decisions and categorical funding considerations. Board members praised teachers and curriculum staff during the presentation.

What’s next Administrators said a fuller strategic-plan update will come in June. The district also promoted an upcoming literacy event, Read Around Urbandale, and reminded families that kindergarten registration continues online or at district offices and schools.

Quoted "Our ELA proficiency overall for the district is up to 73.9 percent," a district official said during the presentation. "This is the highest scores in five years."