Results of student assessments conducted by the Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) revealed a downward trend in academic performance.
The dip in HIDOE’s 2020-21 Strive HI Performance System result was attributed to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Big Island Now.
“Even though this year’s results are not as comprehensive due to the lower participation rates, the data are still very informative for our schools, complex areas, administrators and teachers,” Interim Superintendent of HIDOE Keith Hayashi told Big Island Now.
Overall, the academic proficiency in English language arts, math and science decreased across the state.
Normally, a penalty is imposed if a 95% participation rate is not met. This time, however, the U.S. Department of Education waived the 95% participation rate requirement for the 2020-21 school year. The waiver is in acknowledgment and understanding of the unprecedented time when “all states would have difficulty administering tests due to the large proportion of students in blended or full distance-learning environments,” Big Island Now reported.
Eighty-five percent of students statewide tested in language arts and math.
Hayashi said 88% of students were learning in blended or virtual learning environments last school year. “While there are some bright spots, the overall results emphasize the importance of having students back in the classroom for in-person learning and will help inform our plans for targeted supports and resources,” he told Big Island Now.