High School Exit Exam Results Released

10^th-grade class earned solid marks on today’s released California High School Exit Exam results, with 83 percent passing both the math and English/Language Arts facets of the test. This puts them higher than the Los Angeles Unified School District’s average of 75 percent for 10th-graders, according to the California Department of Education.

“Of course the number is good, and we’re happy about it,” said Eagle Rock High School principal Salvador Velasco. “It’s especially gratifying these days – with more students per class, and to still bring about these results … it goes to the merit of these teachers and the resilience of these students to put up with what we’re facing.”

Velasco also mentioned the kind of help needed for those not fortunate enough to be in the 83 percent, some missing the mark by “only a few questions.” He said teachers would first pinpoint and address the students’ weaker areas, and there are also educational “boot camps” a week or two before the exam.

All public high school students are required to first take the exam during their sophomore year. If they don’t pass, there are two more chances during junior year and then three to five more opportunities for seniors.

As for the Class of 2011, the Department of Education noted that 94.6 percent of students passed the exam, with increases showing among black, Latino, Asian and white students.

"The results of this year's exit examination — and the progress schools are making to close the achievement gap — are yet another sign of the remarkable commitment that teachers, school employees, and administrators have to the students of California," said Tom Torlakson, state superintendent of public instruction, in a released statement.

To check out the results for yourself, click here.