Sayreville Student Test Scores Show Gains in Reading, Mixed Results in Math

Sayreville students showed encouraging growth in reading and language arts this year, while math scores remained mixed across grade levels, according to the district’s October 2025 Student Achievement presentation. The data, shared by Supervisor of Curriculum Kim Grossman, highlighted progress in key areas along with the district’s plans to strengthen academic performance next year.

Reading Scores Rise Across Multiple Grades

Overall, 54% of Sayreville students met or exceeded expectations in English Language Arts (ELA) on the 2025 New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA) — up from 50% the previous year. Several grades, including 3rd, 4th, 6th, and 7th, outperformed statewide averages. Fourth graders led the way, with 59% meeting expectations compared to the state’s 54%.

Math Results Show Room for Improvement

Math scores continued to trail ELA, with 39% of students meeting or exceeding expectations. While certain grades showed growth — including 6th grade (38%, up from 34%) and 7th grade (35%, up from 33%) — results varied widely by course. Algebra II students scored well above state levels, with 95% meeting expectations compared to 73% statewide, while Algebra I and Geometry results were lower than state averages.

Science Proficiency Holds Steady

In science, 26% of high school juniors met expectations, matching the state average. Fifth-grade scores improved slightly from last year, while eighth-grade results remained largely unchanged. The district plans to address science performance through new curriculum materials and course realignments at Sayreville War Memorial High School.

District Demographics and Equity Challenges

The report also noted that more than 41% of Sayreville families are considered economically disadvantaged — a factor that can affect student performance. The district’s population is 53% White, 28% Hispanic, 22% Black/African American, and 17% Asian, with about 18% of students receiving special education or 504 services and 6% identified as English language learners.

SAT and ACT Scores Above National Average

Members of the Class of 2025 averaged a combined SAT score of 1074 — 542 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 532 in Math. Nearly half of students met or exceeded the College Board’s college readiness benchmarks. Eighteen Sayreville students also took the ACT, posting an impressive average composite score of 25.7, well above the national average of 19.4.

Focus Areas for 2025–2026

To build on recent gains, Sayreville plans several academic initiatives next year. In ELA, the district will introduce a new foundational literacy program for grades K–3, update curriculum in grades 6–8, and expand ESL academies and community outreach. In math, a new K–6 instructional series will be piloted, along with targeted professional development and digital tools like SuccessMaker and Math 180 for skill reinforcement.

Science Program Enhancements Ahead

The high school will also see major updates to science instruction. Biology will move to 9th grade, Chemistry to 10th, and a new “Biological Life Sciences” course will offer additional intervention for students needing extra support. The district will also adopt new textbooks for Chemistry and Environmental Science.

District Leaders Emphasize Continuous Growth

Grossman noted that while the district is proud of the progress made, there is continued focus on closing learning gaps and supporting all students. “Our goal is to ensure every Sayreville student has the tools and instruction they need to succeed, whether they’re preparing for college, a career, or beyond,” she said.