The Texas Education Agency has released preliminary statewide results from the fifth- and eighth-grade State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness—or STAAR tests—administered in April. The results are for reading and math exams. Across the state, 78 percent of fifth graders and 76 percent of eighth graders passed the reading exam on their first attempts. Seventy-one percent and 76 percent, respectively, passed on the first try in 2016-17. Eighty-four percent of fifth graders and 78 percent of eighth graders passed the math exam in the first round of testing—up from 81 percent and 74 percent, respectively, in 2016-17. Students must pass these exams to move on to the next grade level. Those who “did not meet grade level” still have two more chances to pass—May 14-15 and again June 26-27. Results labeled “approaches grade level,” “meets grade level” and/or “masters grade level” indicate a passing score. STAAR scores affect accountability ratings for campuses and districts across the state, set to be released later this year. The TEA has not yet made district scores public for this round of testing. For more detailed test score information, visit www.tea.texas.gov.