Detroit schools report growth in state exam proficiency

Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) has reported year-over-year gains in reading, writing, and math proficiency on state standardized tests. According to recent M-STEP results, the district reached a 12-year high in the percentage of third graders scoring proficient or above in reading and writing, bucking a statewide trend of stagnant early literacy rates.

Despite these improvements, DPSCD students still trail statewide averages. For instance, 14.1% of DPSCD third graders achieved proficiency compared to 38.2% of Michigan public school students. Superintendent Nikolai Vitti noted that while students across the state and country face academic regression, Detroit students are showing improvement. Researchers from Michigan State University suggested these results indicate a systemic turnaround for the district.