Academic Achievement

When it comes to academic proficiency, good is never good enough. In Fiscal Year 2022, one of every three HUSD students tested as "not proficient" in Mathematics and English Language Arts, and two of every three students tested as "not proficient" in science. In other words, twenty students in a classroom of 30 are incompetent in science. While these trends may be better than statewide averages, we should not be satisfied with "fitting in with the rest." We owe it to our students, their parents, and the community to produce highly educated and proficient pupils.

At a minimum, the expectation is for all students to meet basic graduation requirements. That said, find a parent who wishes to place their student in a minimally-achieving school district. In 2022, NationsReportcard.gov reported Arizona was significantly below the national average in mathematics, ranking 38th overall—only seven states/territories scored lower. The last time national data was collected for science, Arizona was also found to be significantly below the national average. In 2023, U.S. News compiled metrics and test scores and ranked Arizona 48th out of 50 for Pre-K - 12 education. 

In 2023, according to the Arizona Department of Education, nearly half (42%) of Higley Unified School District students scored less than proficient in math, and only 58% achieved a passing score. English Language arts scores were nearly identical (41% and 59%). In science, only 37% of students achieved a passing score on the state assessment test. Critics will say, "Yes, but these numbers are slightly above the peer-group state average." When your state ranks second-to-last, slightly above average is woefully low. 

Despite the state or neighboring districts, we owe it to our students to deliver the finest education possible. An excellent school district strives for excellence without regard to what others are achieving around them, and the school board is responsible for this. The board must inspire confidence in every student by raising expectations for achievement and conduct. Also, the board must ensure that all students have the resources and support needed to meet and exceed expectations and develop their full potential. What a school district we would have if we were pulling other districts up to greatness rather than allowing ourselves to be pulled down with the rest.