D-159 ISAT scores improve

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Updated: March 1, 2012 8:01AM

Elementary School District 159’s Illinois Standards Achievement Test scores are the highest they’ve been in 11 years, according to Supt. Barbara Suggs Mason.

District 159 students showed an overall increase in 2011 ISAT test scores of nearly 3 percent compared to 2010 while exceeding the state’s average scores in third, fourth, fifth and eighth grade reading, as well as third and fifth grade mathematics.

“We’re so proud of our students and what they have accomplished, and I’m certain that they will continue to impress us with their ability to shine throughout the school year and beyond,” Mason said.

Mason delivered the ISAT announcement during an assembly held immediately prior to an organized tour of the district. Local business owners, politicians and members of the clergy were invited to tour each of the schools by way of school bus and share their opinions on what they observed.

Elementary School District 159 is comprised of four elementary schools — Marya Yates, Sieden Prairie and Woodgate, all located in Matteson; and Neil Armstrong Elementary School in Richton Park. Colin Powell is the district’s only middle school. More than 2,100 students attend the schools.