LOS ANGELES (CNS) – The Academic Performance Index score for Los Angeles Unified schools — summarizing students’ performance on a series of tests — rose by 16 points in 2011-12, outpacing gains made by students across the state, although the district still lags behind the California average.

The district’s score went from 729 last year to 745. The statewide API score increased by 10 points, from 778 last year to 788, according to figures released today by the California Department of Education.

The scores range from 200 to 1,000, with a performance target of 800.

In the LAUSD, 321 schools met or exceeded the 800-point score, up from 209 last year. Balboa Gifted/High Ability Magnet Elementary earned the highest score, with 983.

According to the state, 53 percent of California schools met or exceeded the 800-point bar in 2011-12, up four percentage points from the previous year.

API reflects growth in student achievement from one year to the next. It is determined by results on the California Standards Tests in English, math, history/social science and science, and the California High School Exit Exam.

“We’ve set a high bar for schools and they have more than met the challenge, despite the enormous obstacles that years of budget cuts have put in their way,” state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson said. “The incredible efforts of teachers, administrators, school employees, parents and students should serve as an inspiration to us all. While there’s still more work to do, California’s schools have earned a vote of confidence.”

Statewide, 59 percent of elementary schools, 49 percent of middle schools and 30 percent of high schools met the state API benchmark.

Elementary school scores statewide increased by 7 points to 815, while middle schools jumped 14 points to 792 and high schools increased 11 points to 752.

(No Ratings Yet)

 Loading …