Bradley County students outscored the state proficiency average in all but two areas - 3-8 math and Algebra II. Bradley County Schools outranks some neighboring school district in every category, Bradley officials said.
Officials stated, "While Bradley County did not exceed the state average in 3-8 math, there were significant gains with a 6 percent increase in proficiency over last year. In Algebra II proficiency, Bradley County reports a rate of 30 percent compared to the state average of 33.3 percent proficient or advanced. In contrast, Algebra I End of Course tests increased 13.9 percent in proficiency, ranking Bradley County 49th out of 122 districts.
"As announced in late 2010, Bradley County Schools began a math initiative much like its well-established reading initiative. The reading initiative continues to garner phenomenal results while the math initiative is also beginning to bring great results."
“Bradley County had excellent growth in its core subjects this year, with particularly high growth in math and science,” stated Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman. “In fact, proficiency levels in Algebra I grew by nearly 14 percent, and proficiency in Biology climbed by 14.5 percent – phenomenal growth for a single year which will help many more high school students prepare for post-secondary education,” concluded Commissioner Huffman.
Johnny McDaniel, Director of Bradley County Schools, praised the work of teachers, staff and administrators. “Amidst a year of rebuilding and relocating from the destruction left behind from the storms of 2011, teachers and staff in Bradley County Schools have continued to focus on our commitment to excellence,” stated Mr. McDaniel. “Teachers have been supported by a great team of administrators throughout this year of change to a new teacher evaluation system. I am very proud of their dedication and hard work.”