Mayor Adams' Statement on Strong Growth in 2023 Math and English Language Arts Test Scores, Closing of Racial Learning Gap

October 6, 2023

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement after the New York City Department of Education released 2023 test scores showing strong growth in math and English language arts (ELA):

“We are elated to see strong growth under this administration’s first full school year. As a student I struggled with an undiagnosed disability, so I know firsthand how the right support at school can change a student’s trajectory. That’s why we introduced critical investments like dyslexia screenings, NYC Reads, and more to ensure students are provided with the tools needed to unlock their true potential. This is only the beginning. The work continues under this administration and the leadership of Chancellor Banks to reinvent public education in New York City.”

Math test score proficiency increased from 37.9 percent in 2022 to 49.9 percent in 2023. During that same period, ELA proficiency increased from 49 percent to 51.7 percent.

The disparity between Black and white students in ELA also declined between 2022 and 2023. Black students increased proficiency by 13.8 percent in math and 4.5 percent in ELA, reducing the gap with white students by 2.1 percent and 2.2 percent, respectively.

A summary of the state test results and data is available online.

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