MINOT, ND (KXNET) — The Magic City's school enrollment numbers are up, but its test scores are below average. In language arts, the Minot Public School district scored in the 43rd percentile — 3% lower than the state's average score. In math, the district scored in the 37th percentile, which is also 3% lower than the state's 40% average. Meanwhile, in science, the district is only 3% below the state average of 32% in proficient scoring. "We are working on analyzing where we fell short," states Dr. Scott Faul, "because the scores you are looking at are overall district scores. We break those down by school, grade level, and different things like that, and try and put our resources where they need to be." Dr. Faul states they have lots of great teachers and support for the kids — but the exact time assessments take place is often too late to have an impact on the students in question. "That's always the challenge with the state assessment," he continues. "That test is given in the spring, and we get the results in the fall. We really can't work with that grade level because they've moved on to the next." Bismarck educator is 2025 Teacher of the Year Despite this problem, the state is working diligently to improve its assessment scores. "We always use different data points and triangulate the data," Faul continues, "so it's not just one high-stakes test. It's also teacher assessment and intern tests. We use the star assessment and try to paint the picture so it isn't just one snapshot." The state continues to say that if standards need improvement, then teachers will need to develop lesson plans that better support their needs within the curriculum, and assessments that go along with them. "There are no excuses," Faul concludes. "Our results are what they are right now, so we are going to create some goals and action steps on how we can improve those scores going into next year." Dr. Faul states that they want their kids to reflect on their performance while the district continues to work with them, in the hopes that they can show improvement on the next State Assessment. He also mentions that people are working hard to do the right thing for the kids and families in town. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW