Improved FCAT Writing Scores at FAMU-DRS are a Good Indicator for Success

Students at Florida A&M University Developmental Research School (FAMU-DRS) scored significantly higher on the writing portion of the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) than last year.

Approximately 81 percent of students passed the writing portion of the test compared to the 64 percent from last year.

“We have placed a lot of energy and efforts in ensuring that all our students become proficient or perform above grade level for each portion of the FACT,” said Ronald Holmes, Ph.D., superintendent of FAMU-DRS. “We are hoping that the writing results will have a positive impact on our overall FCAT scores. I can’t really say how much weight it will have at this time, but I can say that it is a good indicator for success in the other areas.”

About 69 percent of fourth-graders scored a 3.5, the passing score, or higher compared to last year’s 40 percent. Last year, 92 percent of eighth-graders scored a 3.5 or higher compared to last year’s 81. Approximately 84 percent of 10th graders scored a 3.5 or higher compared to last year’s 73 percent.

According to Holmes, to prepare for the FCAT, FAMU-DRS made it an expectation for students to attend reading, writing, math and science after-school academies. In addition to the after-school academies, students were encouraged to attend school on Saturdays to be fully prepared for the writing portion of the test.

These efforts are also part of the FAMU-DRS three-year plan to become a National School of Excellence or a Blue Ribbon School.

FAMU-DRS will receive the scores for reading, mathematics and science in approximately four to six weeks.