Middle School Science Scores ROCKET to the Top!

After the public release of state test scores earlier this month, Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher expressed concern for science performance among students across Kentucky, stating that the percentage of proficient and distinguished students has continued a downward trend. That’s not the case, however, at Crittenden County Middle School. In fact, its science scores are among the highest in the state. Among the 319 middle schools across the Commonwealth, CCMS ranked 9th, with nearly half of all 7th graders achieving proficient or distinguished status.

7th grade science teacher Neal Bryant attributes the stellar performance to student initiative, staff collaboration, and relationship building. “The kids, first and foremost, deserve a lot of credit,” said Bryant. “They worked really hard all year long.”

Bryant credits another teacher, his partner inside and out of school, wife Becky, for the students’ success, as well. Mrs. Bryant teaches 6th grade science and, together, the husband-wife duo, work tirelessly to instill their love and knowledge of the subject to all students who pass through their classrooms. 

“Becky and I know each others’ standards as well as our own,” said Bryant. “I go and watch her teach, and she does the same. She asks things like, ‘what do kids need to know for you next year from this standard,’” he explained. 

Bryant said it’s this seamless immersion into the standards that give their students comprehension and application knowledge, equipping them with more than just success on a test, but also with a richer understanding of the world around them.

“Obviously, we are thrilled with their performance rating,” said Bryant, “but more importantly, it’s very rewarding to know that our students have a deep understanding of science and why things work the way they do. As a teacher, you can’t ask for more than that!”

Lastly, Bryant says relationships play a key role in student learning and achievement. “I’m a big believer in relationship building,” said Bryant. “I believe those relationships inspired the kids to try their very best on their tests, because they knew how hard we all had worked and what it meant to each other and to our school.”

As a whole, Crittenden County Middle School again ranked among the top schools in the state, earning a “green” color distinction, an honor that only 91 middle schools in Kentucky can boast. Superintendent Tonya Driver praised both staff and student effort for their outstanding achievement. “Results like that don’t happen by accident,” said Driver. “It is the result of total buy in from both students and staff, and we are so proud to celebrate the fruit of their hard work.”

Get more information on state assessment accountability data online at education.ky.gov.