Midway ISD Reports Strong Mid-Year Academic Growth Ahead of Spring Testing

Midway ISD students are showing measurable academic growth at the middle of the 2025–2026 school year, with a majority of students in grades 6–9 performing above the national average in reading and steady gains recorded across elementary reading and math.

The midyear data was presented to the Board of Trustees this week and comes at a critical point in the school year — just weeks before spring benchmark assessments and state testing begin.

“This is significant because it tells us, in real time, how our students are progressing before state testing,” said Dr. Becky Odajima, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning. “We are not waiting until May to see the results. Midyear data allows us to celebrate growth, identify gaps, and adjust instruction now.”

The district uses multiple assessment tools — including NWEA MAP, Tango LION, and IXL — to track student growth from Beginning of Year (BOY) to Middle of Year (MOY) and beyond. These adaptive screeners provide real-time data that helps teachers tailor instruction and target student needs.

IXL midyear benchmark results show strong performance among middle and early high school students:

• 60% of 6th graders are performing above the national average
• 53% of 7th graders are above national average
• 50% of 8th graders are above national average
• 59% of 9th graders are above national average

These national comparisons demonstrate that Midway students are competing strongly beyond the local level while giving educators clear direction for targeted intervention where needed.

In kindergarten through fifth grade, students demonstrated steady growth from Beginning of Year to Middle of Year on the NWEA MAP reading assessment. In math, Tango LION data reflects movement of students into “On Track” and “Above Level” performance categories.

Midyear progress monitoring serves as an instructional checkpoint. The data guides reteach plans, intervention groups, and instructional adjustments before students sit for state assessments beginning April 8.

Following the data review, Midway educators participated in a districtwide professional learning day focused on analyzing performance trends, disaggregating results by content standards, and refining instructional strategies. Ongoing staff meetings continue to support students who need additional growth.

“Midyear progress monitoring ensures we stay proactive,” Odajima said. “Our focus is growth for every student, and this data confirms we are moving in the right direction while continuing to refine our work.”

District benchmark assessments scheduled for February and March will provide another data point as students prepare for spring testing.