For the 2024 Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs), St. Louis Park Public Schools have shown academic progress. The MCAs is a statewide assessment that measures students' proficiency in reading, mathematics, and science. It is used to ensure that districts meet Minnesota's academic standards and the requirements set by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).

Reading and Math Show Encouraging Growth

This year, the district exceeded state averages in all three subject areas, with notable improvements in reading and math. This chart compares the state average proficiency rates in three subject areas (Math, Reading, and Science) with the proficiency rates of St. Louis Park Public Schools, represented as orange bars. The gray bars represent the state averages.

In reading, 54.5% of students in the district met or exceeded proficiency, outperforming the state average of 49.9%. Math results also reflected this upward trend, with the district at 46.6%, surpassing the state average of 45.5%. Science was also above the state average of 39.6% at 49.9%. 
"These numbers indicate that the hard work of our teachers and staff to become culturally relevant practitioners is paying off. One of the three key components of being a culturally relevant school district is academic success. This data shows that we are making improvements and we're excited for the work ahead," shared Dr. Silvy Lafayette, director of teaching and learning.

MCA science update - science is on the rise!

After a slight dip in 2023, where scores fell below previous levels, the district has rebounded. Progress in reading and math show steady increases. 

"Our staff have been working hard to support the implementation of the 2019 Minnesota Science standards. Last year's science MCA data does not reflect the new Minnesota science standards. The 2025 Science MCAs, however, will finally reflect the new standards, so we are excited to finally see proficiency data that reflects the teaching of the current standards," Lafayette continued.

Local Comparisons Provide Insight

The district’s performance was also compared with several neighboring districts, including Hopkins Public Schools and Richfield Public Schools, both of which share similar demographics. St. Louis Park Public Schools’ growth in reading and math outpaced both of these schools, showing the impact of recent instructional adjustments.

As the district continues to align its teaching methods with data-driven strategies, the district is optimistic about maintaining this momentum and increasing proficiency for all students.