Local Students Show Mixed Progress in Statewide Tests

In Sonoma and Napa counties, students made modest steps forward last year. Science scores rose noticeably, while English and math lagged behind both state averages and pre‑pandemic levels. The local numbers are still below the statewide benchmarks, showing a mixed picture of progress.

English proficiency slipped slightly in both counties. In Sonoma, 44.63% met standards, a tiny drop from the prior year. Napa’s ELA results fell 1 faculties. Math improved a bit, with Sonoma at 33.49% and Napa at 31.77%, yet both remain well under the 2018‑2019 baseline.

Science is the bright spot. Sonoma’s science rate climbed to 32.28%, up 8.39% from last year. Napa’s science score jumped to 29.46%, a 17.84% rise. District highlights include Santa Rosa’s high‑school math boost of over 25% and West Sonoma’s science gain to 31.7%.

Across California, 49.26% of students are ready in English, 38.35% in math, and 35.99% in science. Only science shows a true recovery, surpassing pre‑COVID levels by 20%. The rest still trail behind where they were in 2019, underscoring the need for continued support.