Local Gains Outpace Statewide Trends in Reading and Math
Every year, the Washington State Report Card offers an overview of how schools and districts are performing across the state. It includes data on enrollment, demographics, staffing, and student performance metrics such as assessment scores, attendance rates, and behavior incidents. While these statewide results are useful for reflection, they come too late in the year to shape real-time teaching strategies.
In the Enumclaw School District, a more dynamic approach is paying off. Instead of waiting for end-of-year results, Enumclaw educators closely monitor student progress throughout the year using measures aligned to the district’s Five Commitments. These locally developed benchmarks are assessed three times annually and provide timely insights into how students are progressing—empowering teachers to adjust instruction when it matters most.
The results are something to celebrate: data from the 2024–2025 school year reveal substantial growth in both reading and mathematics, with student performance soaring from fall to spring. This isn’t just a short-term win, it’s part of a powerful three-year trend showing Enumclaw students consistently outpacing academic gains seen across Washington State.
Why It Matters
Unlike the state assessments that arrive after the school year ends, Enumclaw’s proactive assessment model allows for responsive teaching and program adjustments throughout the year. This means struggling students get support sooner, and high-achieving students can be challenged appropriately, both key ingredients for real, measurable growth.
WA Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) Preliminary Trend Data
Three-year trend data shows Enumclaw’s pass rates rising faster than the state’s in both English Language Arts and Math, placing the district ahead of Washington in each of the past three testing cycles.
Between 2022 and 2025, the percentage of Washington state students in grades 3-12 achieving proficiency (Levels 3 or 4) on SBA in Math and English Language Arts increased by an average of 3%. ESD outpaced the state, with a 5% increase in students meeting or exceeding standards in both subjects.
What’s Behind the Success?
Enumclaw’s progress isn’t accidental. In recent years, the district has made major investments in instructional quality—from adopting rigorous, modern math and reading curricula, to supporting teacher collaboration through common assessments and aligned learning goals. This systemic approach has allowed teachers to better differentiate instruction and meet students where they are.
Backed by committed staff and a clear instructional vision, learning in Enumclaw is on the rise and it’s not slowing down. As families, educators, and community members cheer on this momentum, the district remains focused on continuous improvement to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.