rom last year’s state math assessment. From the results of the cumulative test, Hastings High has some areas on which to work.

Last year, junior students, along with fourth and eighth graders, were tested in all areas of math required by the state and each level scored significantly lower than the state average. Eleventh graders scored a 49.3 percent proficiency, while the state average was at 75 percent. Since all levels of students scored low, the school district is on “probation” and required to submit an Action Plan to the Nebraska Department of Education by February 1 to demonstrate what actions will be taken to improve results.

“The numbers on the test indicate half of the students are demonstrating proficiency and some are excelling. Students were tested on stuff they don’t have normal exposure to, so we’re changing how and when we give tests,” Principal Jay Opperman said.

There are many different views on what should be done to improve math scores. When reading scores were down, the school implemented weekly “Fab Vocab.”

“If Fab Vocab improves our scores, why not try something like Fab Math?” freshman Kelsey Craig said.

Sophomore Dale Callahan didn’t know exactly how math scores could be improved but offered a suggestion.

“Math scores could be improved by starting math earlier. It would be a big advantage to everyone in school,” Callahan said.

Opperman said the district is trying to figure out what needs to be done to improve scores and where the problem lies.

“Part of the problem was a two year math requirement, but now it is three years. Giving one summative test doesn’t help students score well either,” Opperman said.

In a recent interview in the Hastings Tribune, Craig Kautz, assistant superintendent for curriculum and human resources, was optimistic about the math assessment. A third year of math for juniors has been added to required classes for the eleventh grade year.

“I believe changes that are already made will show an improvement a year from now. I am confident that we are going to be better,” Kautz said.

Opperman also said that students could work to improve the math scores through several simple ways.

“In general, students could remember the connection between practice, assignments, and taking tests. Students could be more consistent, do homework, and pay attention in class and be flexible to make changes to be more successful,” Opperman said.

Math classes are often dominated by daily homework, proving to be challenging for some students. Math, though, has many positive aspects.

“My favorite part of math is that there is always one answer and everything is completely objective in math,” Callahan said.