Students in the Whittier Union High School District posted record-high scores in a statewide test evaluating proficiency in English language arts, mathematics and science.

Of the Whittier Union 11th graders who took the 2023-24 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) test, 65% met or exceeded standards in English language arts, 37% in math and 39% in science. These results surpass the state averages of 56%. 28% and 325 respectively. The district made the announcement Oct. 28.

It is also an improvement over the last time students took the test, when the district achieved 62% in English language arts and 31% in math.

“These great scores are really a testament to the dedication of our students,” said Timothy Liggett, Whittier Union Director of Assessment and Accountability. “Their hard work, along with the unwavering commitment of our teachers, has made this achievement possible. It’s the best we’ve ever done, and it feels great to celebrate that success.”

The results reflect the district’s success in supporting Hispanic and Latino students who are socioeconomically disadvantaged, Liggett added.

“With approximately 75% of students that identify as socioeconomically disadvantaged and 90% identifying as Hispanic or Latino in our District, equitable outcomes for students require strong systems to be in place,” Liggett said. “Our teachers are constantly analyzing student data and refining their practices to see what works best.”

Of the schools that tested 200 students in that criterion, Whittier Union High School District placed first in math, second in science, and fifth in English language arts.

The test scores also encourage teachers and administrators, who said their goal is to prepare students for life beyond high school, and the options of attending a four-year university, enrolling in a two-year college, pursuing a trade, or starting a career.

Superintendent Monica Oviedo also gives credit to district teachers and support staff who use standardized testing as a resource for educational opportunity and a chance to balance inequities, especially in low-income households or communities of color.

“These results reflect the commitment of our students, staff, and families, and our focus remains on fostering an environment where every student feels empowered to achieve at the highest level,” Oviedo said. “We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and look forward to building on this success in the years to come.”

Whittier Union High School District includes five high schools, a continuation school, one alternative studies program and one adult school. It serves more than 10,000 students in Whittier and Santa Fe Springs.