42 seniors still need to pass proficiency exam

A little more than two months before graduation, 16 percent of Carson High School seniors have not passed the proficiency exam.

At this time last year, 6 percent had not yet passed.

"That's definitely a concern," said Mike Watty, associate superintendent of education. "We've been doing some analysis, but we have not been able to identify anything specific."

All Nevada seniors must pass a high-school proficiency exam in reading, writing and math to graduate.

Watty announced the results of the February test during Tuesday's school board meeting.

He reported eight students have yet to pass the reading portion, 15 haven't passed writing, and 80 have not passed math.

Of those 80 students, 26 are classified as special education and not required to pass the exam. Seven don't have enough credits to graduate, and five have withdrawn from school.

That leaves 42 students who need to pass the test in order to walk in graduation ceremonies.

Watty said counselors and administrators from the high school have met with the students.

Remediation classes have also been increased. But turnout has been minimal.

"They've been offering a lot of tutoring after and before school," he said. "Very few students have been taking advantage of them. That's our biggest disappointment."

The next test is April 7-11. Members of the Nevada State Board of Education also have the option of giving an additional test May 21-23.

Individual school districts decide whether students who do not pass the proficiency exam but meet all other requirements are allowed to participate in commencement ceremonies.

Controversy has surrounded the Carson City School District's decision to forbid students who do not pass the exam from walking in graduation.