Across the country, high school students are falling behind in reading, math, and science, and the numbers are causing administrators to lose sleep. According to a recent ABC 8 News report, test scores are slipping, and many educators say students still haven’t fully recovered from the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
But here at Big Spring High School, 75% of students passed the Keystone in biology. Teachers and staff say they’re seeing signs of real progress, even if it’s not always reflected in standardized test results. 55% passed the Literature Keystone, and 48% passed the Algebra 1 Keystone. Principal Michael Carnes said, “Each year the scores fluctuate, and we are above state average in all three tests.”
This year, the goals at the high school include a proficiency rate of 44% in Algebra 1, a 56% in Biology, and a 74% in Literature.
Regardless of test scores, administrators see growth in students. “Test scores don’t capture the full environment of a school,” said Joseph Sinkovich, assistant principal. “There are so many successes beyond the numbers. Our teachers and staff are deeply committed to creating the kind of environment every school wants, one where students feel supported and ready for life after graduation.”
Sinkovich said that while students still face challenges, the school is focused on building up foundational skills and adjusting instruction when needed. It’s part of a broader effort to meet students where they are and support their growth.
“Our top priority is making sure every student leaves here prepared for life outside the classroom.” Sinkovich said.
Teachers are also seeing the long-term impact of the pandemic on learning. Michael Ginter, who is the department head of math, said the last few years have been about catching up. “There was a big drop in learning after COVID,” Ginter said. “A lot of material fell through the cracks. But we’re starting to come back, we’re almost back to where we were before all of it.”
One area that’s received special attention is the Keystone Exams, which students must pass to graduate in Pennsylvania. Ginter said he reminds students that the Keystones aren’t just another test; they’re a key step toward graduation.“We tell students that passing the Keystones is the easiest way to graduate,” Ginter said.
For many students, however, motivation depends on whether the work is truly valued. Senior Matthew Paulus said he doesn’t put in effort on assignments unless there’s a clear reason to.“I don’t try if it’s not graded,” Paulus said. “I feel like nobody tries on stuff that doesn’t matter. I do try on the Keystone because I know it’s a graduation requirement.”
While national headlines may focus on what’s being lost, local educators are focusing on what’s being built, a path forward, one student at a time.
