Signs of Social Promotion Evident at Many Local Schools

ABOUT THE MAP

The Star examined millions of student grades recorded between 2002 and 2007. For the above graphic, the newspaper compared the percentage of students who failed one or more core classes (English, science, math or social studies) with the average number of students who were retained.

For example, if 50 percent of students at one school failed basic courses, but 10 percent were retained, it would be difference of 40 percentage points – a group of students that some experts say should have been held back.

The above results show middle and high schools from the 2006-07 school year. The failure rate includes students who received failing year-end grades, or who failed one or more semesters.

BY THE NUMBERS

57,865

Students who were enrolled in eight Tucson-area school districts in 2007.

1 in 3

18,389 students failed one or more core classes.

1 in 6

10,383 students failed two or more core classes.

90%

Students in those districts who were promoted to the next grade level.

Social promotion in Tucson, 2006-07

The circles below show the percentage-point differences between the number of students who failed core classes and the number who were retained. Bigger circles indicate greater differences.

ON STARNET

Find detailed records on most Tucson-area middle and high schools online. They show years’ worth of academic progress and social promotion. Visit azstarnet.com/socialpromotion.

Originally published by SARAH TROTTO, ARIZONA DAILY STAR.

(c) 2008 Arizona Daily Star. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.