Rochester Students Beat Statewide Reading Score for First Time in 14 Years, Gain in Math & Science Proficiency
Rochester, MN (RochesterNow)- Students in the Rochester Public School District have done something that has not been achieved in 14 years.
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The results from the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) standardized tests published on Wednesday indicate the RPS reading proficiency rate topped the statewide rate for the first time since 2012.
RPS Reading Proficiency Score Tops Statewide Score for First Time in 14 Years
A news release issued by RPS announcing the results shows 46.5% of RPS students met or exceeded grade level academic standards for reading. The statewide student proficiency for reading was 46.2%.
RPS says this year’s results can not be compared with previous years due to the state approving a new set of academic standards to evaluate students with.
The district is crediting its new curriculum for reading at the elementary level.
RPS implemented “brief computer-based tests that identify students who are struggling and students who are ready for greater challenge, implementing intensive programs for students who lack core knowledge and skills, and providing teachers and educational support professionals with professional development in the science of reading,” the news release says.
RPS Reports Gains in Math & Science Proficiency
RPS also reported gains in students meeting math standards for the fourth straight year.
The proficiency rate at RPS in 2026 was 40.1%. That’s up from 39.6% in 2025 and is an increase of nearly five percentage points from the 35.6% proficiency rate recorded in 2022.
RPS students also posted gains in science proficiency. 2026 was the second year of a new test to measure new science standards.
25.4% of RPS students met or exceeded grade-level academic standards for science. That’s up from 23.8% in 2025.
“The gains in math and science are modest, but they are meaningful, and exceeding the state’s reading proficiency rate is encouraging,” said Superintendent Dr. Kent Pekel. “I appreciate the work our students and staff are doing every day. At the same time, too many students are not yet meeting state standards. Our RPS 2030 strategic plan is designed to build on the work already underway and accelerate improvement.”
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Gallery Credit: T.J. Leverentz
