BonDeCroft teacher achieves Exceptional Math Mastery

BonDeCroft Elementary teacher Marti Hedgecoth and her students recently achieved 80 percent mastery on the state standardized test, Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP). TCAP has assessments in math, English language arts, social studies, and science. TCAP results were released earlier this summer.

Students whose score “meets” or “exceeds” are considered to be proficient in meeting the grade level expectations for mastery of academic standards. Overall, the state average in fifth grade math was 41 percent. White County’s fifth grade average was nearly 20 points higher.

“The difference between our district’s average and the state’s average shows the caliber of teachers we have here in White County,” Tina Brown, academic coach, said. “I’ve seen first-hand the amount of work all of our teachers put in to earn this level of achievement. It’s something really special to be a part of.”

Director of Schools Kurt Dronebarger surprised Hedgecoth during class recently to celebrate her achievement with her students. Students applauded her while she was presented a certificate of achievement.

“I say it all the time, and I will continue to say it, White County has the best teachers,” Dronebarger said. “Eighty percent mastery is exceptionally special, but many of our teachers show impressive achievement, especially when compared to state data. I am proud of Mrs. Hedgecoth and all of our educators who work hard each and every day for the students of White County.”

According to Tennessee Department of Education, the math assessments evaluate how well students have mastered the Tennessee Academic Standards, which require students to demonstrate understanding of mathematics, number sense, fluency, and problem solving.

For help understanding individual TCAP results, families can visit the TCAP Family Portal available on the Tennessee Department of Education website. Students and families can also view the “state report card” to find information about how students in the state performed on the 2023 TCAP assessments and how the outcomes compare to previous years.