Crook County School District reports math gains and literacy success
PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Crook County School District students outperformed the Oregon state average in English language arts across every grade level on the 2025–26 Oregon Statewide Assessment System tests released this week by the Oregon Department of Education.
The test results also showed academic gains in mathematics across multiple grade levels, led by eighth-grade students who scored 13% above the state average. Additionally, district students experiencing poverty outperformed state averages in both math and English language arts by nearly 20% in most grade levels.
District officials cited an ongoing focus on early literacy and evidence-based instructional practices for the English language arts performance, which showed strong student achievement in fifth and eighth grades. Bri Van Roekel serves as the district's director of school improvement.
“One of our districtwide instructional priorities is that every student reads and writes every day,” Van Roekel said. “Our investments in early literacy, the Science of Reading and intervention systems are helping us build a strong approach to supporting students. These results are encouraging and reflect the impact of that work, while also reinforcing our commitment to continuous improvement.”
In mathematics, the district reported score increases in grades three through five alongside the eighth-grade results. District administrators stated that expanded math coursework and tiered academic support systems contributed to the progress. Joel Hoff is the superintendent of the Crook County School District.
“We are proud of the growth we are seeing from our students,” Hoff said. “These results are a reflection of the hard work happening in our classrooms every day. Our goal is not simply to see a number increase, but to make sure every student has the support, opportunities and strong instruction they need to be successful. We will celebrate this progress while continuing to look closely at where we can improve.”
District leadership attributed the test results among students experiencing poverty to staff dedication and community involvement in supporting student needs.
“Our students continue to show us what is possible when we provide them with strong support and high expectations,” Hoff said. “We are proud of their accomplishments and grateful to the staff and families who continue to partner with us in helping every student succeed.”
