Top Students Falling Behind

National Merit Scholars Declining

Excellent school systems increase student achievement at all levels, In Rapid City, however, evidence suggests that the most able learners are falling short of their potential. Consider the National Merit program. Across the country, juniors in high school who take the PSAT exam compete for recognition and scholarships. In Rapid City, the number of National Merit semi-finalists has fallen sharply since 2003 and 2004.

Fewer Rated “Advanced” on Dakota STEP

A steady decline in the percentage of students who are rated “advanced” on the Dakota STEP test raises additional concerns about how we are teaching our most able students.

MORE TO COME