Today, the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) released statewide test results for the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) and ACCESS for English Language Learners (ELLs) for the 2024-25 school year.

The MCA is a standardized test taken each spring by students across the state in grades 3-8 and 11 (for math); grades 3-8 and 10 (for reading); and grades 5, 8 and high school (for science). ACCESS is a standardized test taken each winter by students in grades K-12 who are learning English as a second language (ELL).

Overall, Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) students saw slight gains in math and reading on the MCA/MTAC and ACCESS tests when compared to 2023-24. This year, MCA science results will not be released until October.

Districtwide Results

• Of the students taking the reading MCA/MTAS, 35% were proficient, a one percentage point increase from 2023-24

• Of the students taking the math MCA/MTAS, 27% were proficient, a one percentage point increase from 2023-24

• Of the students taking ACCESS for ELLs, 8% were proficient, the same as in 2023-24

Many SPPS schools have made noteworthy strides in student achievement over the last year. Overall, 34 schools saw an increase in the percent of students proficient in math compared to 2024, with 10 schools showing an increase of 5 percentage points or more. Similarly, 32 schools showed an increase in reading compared to 2024, 12 of which increased by at least 5 percentage points when compared with last year.

Schools with an increase of at least 5 percentage points over 2024 (see below chart)

“As the new superintendent of SPPS, these are important data points that will help me ensure we remain focused on strong student performance. My top priority is that more students will be reading and doing math at or above grade level this year and every year moving forward,” said Superintendent Dr. Stacie Stanley. “It is incumbent upon us, as a school district, to make sure that all students are set up for success in school and in life.”

Participation rates by SPPS students in the MCA/MTAS remained stable compared to 2023-24, with 90% testing in math and 92% testing in reading.

A complete summary of SPPS MCA trends is available here.

North Star Accountability

Thirty-three SPPS schools have been identified for either comprehensive or targeted academic support in 2025 under Minnesota’s North Star accountability system. Accountability data is calculated using MCA/MTAS achievement, ACCESS language proficiency, academic progress, graduation and attendance data. These designations are for three years.