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Parents and board debate whether Jericho should keep NGSS-aligned Regents after mastery scores dropped
Summary
After mastery rates fell sharply on new earth science and biology Regents, parents, students and board members debated whether the district should continue with NGSS-aligned exams for chemistry and physics or adopt a conservative approach until materials and state guidance improve.
District curriculum staff presented data showing passing percentages remained largely comparable to prior years, but mastery (scores ≥85) dropped: earth science mastery fell to about 41% (historical 69–74%) and biology mastery fell to about 56% (historical 81–92%). The curriculum presentation noted question wording, high Lexile levels and extra extraneous information in some items as contributors to decreased mastery.
Parents and students described the mental‑health impact of unexpectedly low results and urged caution before rolling forward with new NGSS‑aligned chemistry and physics Regents. One parent argued for a conservative approach: "Why should we repeat the same mistake if we don't have the proper resources in place for the next set of exams?" Board members and administration said they will continue to press the state for clarity, gather more local and state data, and return with recommendations at the next meeting cycle so that the board can decide whether to opt students into the new chemistry and physics versions or delay adoption for a year.
Board members raised precise questions about sample materials, the pace of state data release, deadlines for pass/fail options and how curriculum mapping would close gaps. The administration said the district will prepare additional information (including bringing the curriculum associate to the next meeting) and communicate deadlines and options to families.
