MSCS offers re-testing opportunities for TCAP

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Thousands of 3rd graders across Tennessee will begin retaking the reading and language arts portion of this year’s state-mandated test Wednesday.

Students who did not meet state proficiency levels are required to retest, attend summer school or repeat the 3rd grade, according to a law passed in 2021.

Memphis Shelby County Schools leaders have not released how many students fall into this category, but 60% of students across the state did not meet proficiency levels.

An MSCS parent tells Action News 5 her son received an “achieving” score, a score below proficient. She said she hopes he passes the retake test, but if not, she’s prepared to enroll him in summer school.

“He’s a great reader. He’s got great grades during school,” said a parent of MCS 3rd grader, Sharonda Williams. “Just to know he’s done all the hard work throughout the year and still has to retake a test, it’s kind of disheartening.”

Retesting will end Friday. If students fail to meet the proficiency level again, parents have the option to appeal the retention decision from May 30 through June 13. If that appeal is denied, MSCS Summer Learning Academy will take place from June 20 through July 19.

MSCS leaders said retest scores are expected to be available within 48 hours of testing.

While we await data from MSCS, we know the district has been struggling in the ELA area. Earlier this year, MSCS said during a winter exam, out of 6,000 students, 4,000 of them scored below proficiency level. They also feared 2,000 of them would have to repeat the third grade.

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