What standardized tests are used?

Each state administers its own standardized assessments for English Language Arts and Math, typically in grades 3-8. High school students may take the ACT, SAT, or a state-specific exam. Results are reported as the percentage of students meeting or exceeding grade-level expectations.

How should I interpret proficiency percentages?

Proficiency rates show the percentage of students meeting grade-level expectations. A 60% proficiency rate means 6 out of 10 students tested at or above grade level. Compare against state averages and similar districts for context, as raw numbers alone do not tell the full story.

What are accountability designations?

Under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), schools receive designations based on performance. 'Exemplary' schools perform well above average. 'Commendable' schools meet targets. Schools identified for 'Targeted' or 'Comprehensive' support need improvement in specific areas or overall performance.

Bellingham, WA School Test Scores & Graduation Rates

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School Performance — 2025i

NCES

How students at each school are performing on state assessments. 54.9% meet ELA standards on the state assessment for grades 3-8.

Avg Graduation Ratei

87.2%

ELA Proficiencyi

54.9%

Math Proficiencyi

43.7%

District Summaryi

Bellingham School District

ELA: 56.1%Math: 44.5%Grad Rate: 88.3%

Meridian School District

Grad Rate: 85.4%

Meridian School District

ELA: 52.5%Math: 41.2%Grad Rate: 85.4%

Ferndale School District

ELA: 45.5%Math: 35.8%Grad Rate: 85.2%

Blaine School District

ELA: 43%Math: 36.8%Grad Rate: 87.1%

Intergenerational High School

ELA: 33.3%Grad Rate: 34.4%

ESD 189 acting as a school district

Performance by School (34)i

Elementary Schools

Middle Schools

High Schools

Other Schools

Bellingham, WA School Test Scores & Graduation Rates