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New York’s 2024-2025 Science Test Results Highlight Stark Contrasts in Student Performance

Top District in Westchester County Achieves 92% Proficiency

New York’s latest state science test results for the 2024-2025 academic year reveal a standout performer: a district in Westchester County where 92% of students scored proficient or above, securing its place at the top of the state rankings.

This exceptional achievement underscores the district’s dedication to STEM education, setting a benchmark for districts across New York. But it’s not alone—34 additional districts also surpassed the 80% proficiency mark, signaling strong science performance across a wide geographic area.

Central New York’s Top Performer: Fayetteville-Manlius Leads Onondaga County

In Onondaga County, the Fayetteville-Manlius School District emerged as the standout, with an 82% proficiency rate. This placed the district tied for 22nd in the state, demonstrating its students' robust grasp of scientific concepts.

Yet, just a few miles away in Syracuse, the outlook is far less promising. The Syracuse City School District recorded a mere 21% proficiency rate, the lowest in Onondaga County and ranking 590th out of 599 districts statewide.

Statewide Assessment: A Snapshot of Science Mastery

The annual science assessment is administered to fifth- and eighth-grade students, with proficiency defined as reaching Level 3 or higher on the exam. These results provide a valuable snapshot of how well students statewide are grasping key scientific principles.

While some districts shine brightly, others fall behind—highlighting the uneven distribution of educational resources and the need for targeted interventions in struggling areas.

The data serves as both a celebration of excellence and a call to action for those in need of improvement.