Rising Scores, Increased AP Participation, Signal Eastchester's Upward Trajectory

At Tuesday night’s Board of Education meeting, administrators and staff members highlighted not only the significant academic strides the district has made over the last several years, and laid out a course for ensuring continued elevation of our schools and students. 

Throughout an eye-opening presentation led by EUFSD Superintendent Dr. Alison Villanueva and Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, Assessment, and Student Success, Dr. William Meyer, educators discussed the advances that have been made across all grade levels—from our elementary learners to our soon-to-be graduates—painting a picture of an Eastchester that is on the rise. 

Dr. Meyer opened the presentation by breaking down testing data that speaks to Eastchester’s academic standing, citing an 81% percent proficiency in NYSTP math exams for students in Grades 3-8. But a deeper dive into those numbers yields even more positive news; For example, a glance at the current Grade 7 cohort shows a 91% percent proficiency rate, which includes a 73% proficiency rate among students with disabilities and an 89% rate among English Language Learners. Likewise, ELA scores have risen across the board over the last three years. Last year’s fifth graders scored an 81% percent proficiency rating on New York State standardized tests, making a whopping 18% increase from where this cohort was in the 2022-23 school year. 

“These are very dramatic numbers, and we should be proud, collectively, of the work that our teachers and students are doing within the classrooms,” said Meyer. “It really speaks volumes.”

Meyer then offered building administrators and faculty members an opportunity to discuss some of the district-wide initiatives that have been a factor in Eastchester’s overall ascent, including an additional focus on instructional coaches at the elementary level, department chairs at the middle school level, and increased access to and participation in high-level Advanced Placement courses at the high school. 

In the 2024-25 school year, for example, 377 EHS students enrolled in at least one AP class (up more than 20% from 2020-21). Beyond that, the students who enrolled in these high-level offerings took more AP courses, bringing the total number of AP exams taken up to 821, which represents a roughly 40% increase from the 597 exams taken just four years ago. 

“These numbers aren’t just statistics; they reflect a growing culture of academic ambition in our schools. Students are taking advantage of the opportunities available to them, and our faculty is stepping up to meet the demand,” said EHS Principal Chris Welsh. “The expansion of AP offerings and the increase in enrollment are a direct result of intentional planning, dedicated teaching and, most importantly, our students rising to the challenge,” he added.

As the district looks to build upon this positive momentum, said Villanueva, it is incumbent upon everyone—including students, teachers, administrators and coaches—to continue the good work in helping our Eagles to soar. 

“We have these structures now, so how do we see them flourish?” asked Villanueva. “We have an opportunity on our hands to really tie into the vision of really elevating Eastchester when it comes to these assessments. Our students are performing well, and they are hungry for that next level of enrichment and experience.”

To read Dr. Villanueva's letter to the community regarding test scores, PLEASE CLICK HERE.