The Wyoming Department of Education released its 2025‑26 results for the Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress (WY‑TOPP) and the Wyoming Alternate Assessment (WY‑ALT) on Friday. Across the state, students showed solid gains in the core subjects of English Language Arts, mathematics and science.
Statewide growth in reading and math
English Language Arts scores rose 3.7% overall during the four‑year span, driven primarily by elementary‑grade improvements. Grades 3, 4 and 5 each posted at least a 6% increase, marking a fourth straight year of growth for Grade 3 and a third straight year for Grade 4.
Mathematics performance surged 5.9% statewide. Grades 3, 4, 5, 6 and 9 all improved by at least 5% over the four‑year period. Grade 4 led the charge with an 11.5% jump and three consecutive years of gains, while Grades 3 and 5 each climbed more than 7%. Grade 9 math scores rose 5.5% and have improved each of the last three years.
Science scores climb
Science results also moved upward, up 4.2% overall. Grades 4 and 10 each increased by at least 6% over the four‑year window, with Grade 4 posting steady, uninterrupted gains each year.
Local districts compare to state averages
In Sheridan County, both School District #1 and District #2 posted proficiency rates above the state average in every grade level and in all three tested subjects. Their consistent outperformance highlights the district’s focus on strong curricula and community involvement.
By contrast, the Johnson County School District fell short of the state average in several key areas: third‑ and fourth‑grade English Language Arts scores and fourth‑grade math were below statewide benchmarks. District officials say they are reviewing instructional strategies and will target resources to lift those grades.
What the data means for families
For parents and guardians, the upward trend signals that Wyoming’s public schools are making progress in core academic skills, especially at the elementary level where foundational learning sets the stage for later success. The Department of Education attributes the gains to continued investment in teacher development, updated instructional materials and a focus on data‑driven instruction.
School leaders across the state are encouraged by the results and plan to build on the momentum. Districts are reviewing the detailed score breakdowns to identify strengths and areas for improvement, with an eye toward ensuring that every student—whether in a rural community or a larger district—has the support needed to achieve proficiency.
Looking ahead
The department will release a full analytical report later this month, which will include deeper insights into subgroup performance, longitudinal trends and recommendations for policymakers. Stakeholders are invited to attend a virtual briefing scheduled for early December, where educators, parents and community members can ask questions and discuss next steps.
Overall, the 2025‑26 test results reflect a positive trajectory for Wyoming’s public schools, with particular commendation for the Sheridan County districts that have set a high bar for academic achievement.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
