The Florida Department of Education released grades for elementary and middle schools Friday.
The number of elementary and middle schools earning a preliminary “A” grade increased by 195, or 7 percentage points, over last year, according to preliminary data released by the Department of Education. Statewide, 962 elementary and middle schools earned the top grade.
“The increase in the number of schools earning an ‘A’ this year is great news for students and teachers who have worked hard for this success,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart in a press release. “I appreciate the work by the educators, students and their families in the Big Bend and know they will continue to improve in the future.”
However, the state said the number of schools earning an "F" grade also increased.
In Miami-Dade County, the number of elementary and middle schools earning a preliminary “A” increased by 30 schools in 2013-14, with 43 percent of Miami-Dade County schools now earning an “A” compared to 35 percent in 2012-13. Additionally, 22 Miami-Dade County schools improved two or more letter grades between 2012-13 and 2013-14, including four schools that improved from a “D” to an “A” and two schools that improved from an “F” to a “B.”
In Broward County, the number of elementary and middle schools earning a preliminary grade of “A” increased by 16 schools in 2013-14, with 34 percent of Broward County schools now earning an “A” compared to 28 percent in 2012-13. In addition, nine Broward County schools improved two or more letter grades between 2012-13 and 2013-14.
This is the final year school grades will be calculated using the current formula. The new grading system next year will support the more rigorous Florida Standards and the Florida Standards Assessment which will replace the FCAT. The new school grading formula will be more simple and transparent, according to the Department of Education.
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“The new grading system that will start next year will continue to be crafted with input from parents, teachers and educators,” said Stewart. “Its focus on student achievement and gains will help ensure a fair accountability system that helps measure student knowledge of the new Florida Standards.”
