Marietta City Schools surpass state gains in mathematics achievement
Marietta City Schools (MCS) students have achieved significant gains in mathematics, outperforming state averages and demonstrating exceptional growth across multiple grade levels, according to the Spring 2024 Georgia Milestones Assessment System results.
Key Highlights
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Highest Growth in 4th Grade Mathematics in Metro Atlanta
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MCS achieved the highest math growth for 4th graders in the metro area. (This same cohort also recorded the highest growth in reading within the metro.)
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Statewide, MCS ranked 23rd for 4th-grade math growth.
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Second Highest Growth in 5th Grade Mathematics
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MCS secured the second-highest math growth for 5th graders in the metro area.
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Lockheed Elementary's Growth
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Lockheed Elementary achieved the 8th highest growth in the state in 4th-grade mathematics.
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Two Schools Rank Among Top Eight in 3rd Grade Mathematics
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The Marietta Center for Advanced Academics and West Side Elementary are among the top eight schools in the state based on 3rd-grade mean scale scores and the percentage of students achieving Proficient or Distinguished levels.
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Elementary Schools Excelling Statewide
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Numerous MCS elementary schools are within the top 30% of the state for mathematics performance in grades 4 and 5.
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Highest Growth in Algebra I in Metro Atlanta
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MCS students showed the highest growth in Algebra I in the metro area.
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District-Wide Success in Mathematics
Marietta City Schools has outpaced or matched state gains in 4 out of 6 grades for the percentage of students attaining Proficient or Distinguished Learner status in mathematics:
Grade |
MCS Gain (%) |
State Gain (%) |
Difference |
4 |
8 |
2 |
MCS outperformed state by 6% |
5 |
4 |
4 |
MCS matched state gain |
7 |
6 |
3 |
MCS outperformed state by 3% |
8 |
16 |
8 |
MCS outperformed state by 8% |
In Grade 4 mathematics, 61% of MCS students achieved Proficient or Distinguished Learner levels. This figure surpasses the state average of 48% by 13 percentage points and exceeds the metro Atlanta average of 50% by 11 percentage points. The mean scale score for MCS fourth graders was 545, 19 points higher than the state average of 526.
Prioritizing data-driven instruction, implementing personalized learning plans, and investing in professional development for educators, MCS has created an environment where students can thrive in mathematics.
"Our students' achievements in mathematics speak volumes about the dedication of our teachers and their commitment to excellence," said Superintendent Dr. Grant Rivera. "This growth is not just about numbers; it's about meeting our students where they are and helping them exceed expectations. By focusing on individual needs and providing the right support, we're empowering students to thrive not only in mathematics but in their overall academic journey."
MCS students excelled in Algebra: Concepts and Connections, with 53% reaching Proficient or Distinguished Learner levels. This performance outpaces the state average of 45% by 8 percentage points and the Metro RESA average of 48% by 5 percentage points. Notably, this represents a 17% increase in proficiency from 2023, significantly exceeding the state's 8% growth.
Growth at Lockheed Elementary
Lockheed Elementary School has emerged as a standout performer, showcasing progress in mathematics. The percentage of fifth graders achieving Proficient or Distinguished Learner levels showed a 14 percentage point gain, which is 3.5 times higher than the state.
"Our teachers have approached this year with renewed enthusiasm and a sharp focus on making Lockheed a place where students can truly grow and thrive," said Principal Tricia Patterson. "This remarkable growth reflects not just their hard work but the deep commitment they have to our students' success."
The school's mean scale score in fifth-grade mathematics also improved by 20 points, from 480 in 2023 to 500 in 2024, demonstrating substantial academic progress.
Success Among Diverse Student Groups
MCS also celebrates notable achievements among its diverse student population:
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Students with Disabilities in Grade 4 mathematics had a mean scale score of 515, which is 25 points higher than their peers in the state who scored 490. Additionally, 44% of these students reached Proficient or Distinguished Learner levels, double the state's average of 22%.
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Black students across all grades had higher mean scale scores than their peers in the state, with significant gains in Proficient and Distinguished Learner percentages. For example, in Grade 4 mathematics, MCS Black students achieved a mean scale score of 532, which is 28 points higher than the state average of 504. Additionally, 55% of MCS Black fourth graders reached Proficient or Distinguished Learner levels, surpassing the state average of 32% by 23 percentage points.
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Hispanic students in Grades 3, 4, and 5 outperformed their state peers in both mean scale scores and the percentage of Proficient and Distinguished Learners in mathematics. Notably, in Grade 4 mathematics, 44% of MCS Hispanic students achieved Proficient or Distinguished Learner levels, compared to the state average of 39%, marking a five percentage point advantage. Their mean scale score was 524, which is 10 points higher than the state average of 514.
"I couldn't be more proud of our students and educators," Dr. Rivera said. "Their hard work and commitment have led to these remarkable achievements in mathematics. We are dedicated to maintaining this momentum and ensuring all our students have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed."