Delay in state test scores complicating application process for Philly magnet schools

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A delay in the release of state test scores is complicating the application process for Philadelphia magnet schools.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education still hasn’t released the results of last year’s PSSA and Keystone exams. That normally happens in the summer, but the state said the results may not be verified until November.

Superintendent Tony Watlington said schools were able to set rosters for this new school year, using early information.

“Schools have enough data from the preliminary data to know that. And so we were able to get all of our students rostered and in classrooms,” he said.

But those scores are also required for students to apply to three dozen criteria-based schools, such as Central or Masterman, and applications open on Sept. 8.

“It’s creating enough upset and anxiety that we intend to make the best decision that’s in the best interest of our young people,” Watlington said.

This year was the first time the PSSAs were administered completely online, and PDE said the results won’t be verified until later this fall.

On Aug. 31, the school district said it will push the timeline for applicants to magnet and criteria-based schools from Sept. 8 to Oct. 5 through Nov. 24.

“If their sixth grade scores don’t meet it, they don’t know yet about their seventh grade scores. They can’t look into these schools with confidence and really focus on whether the school is right for them because they’re still wondering, ‘Is this even an option for me?’” said parent Anne Dorn at a school board public hearing on Thursday, Sept. 3.

Last month, three families who claimed the special admissions policy was unconstitutionally based on race won a $650,000 settlement from the district.