District board reveals Costa’s AP, CAASPP results

By Tommy Kelleher

and Hannah Parker

Staff Writers

Manhattan Beach Unified School District Board of Trustees released Costa’s Advanced Placement and California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress test scores at the Wednesday board meeting. 

Executive Director of Educational Services Dr. Brett Geitham and Director of Data, Assessment and Professional Development Dr. Chad Mabery presented both assessments. According to Costa’s AP results, two classes with a 100% pass rate were Spanish and European History. The passing rates for all AP classes increased by five percent in comparison to last year.

“It’s important that we understand as best as we can what our successes and challenges are so that we continue to grow,” Mabery said.

In the CAASPP scores, 75 percent of Costa juniors received proficient or advanced scores in English Language Arts, and 52 percent received proficient or advanced scores in mathematics. The test, administered last spring, was the first Smart Balance test that covered Common Core standards. Costa’s scores surpass the state averages of 44 percent in ELA and 33 percent in math.

“The scores definitely showed that we have a lot of room for growth,” Costa Principal Dr. Ben Dale said. “I applaud our teachers and our instructional leaders for the incredible amount of work they have dedicated, and I look forward to seeing where we excel and where we can continue to improve.”