Press Release
June 24, 2026
Contact: WSESU Central Office at 802-254-3730
Area Students Excel on Standardized Tests
Test scores for area students are on a positive trajectory according to recent statistics released by the Windham Southeast Supervisory Union (WSESU). Over the past two academic years, students in the towns of Brattleboro, Dummerston, Guilford, Putney, and Vernon improved their proficiency in literacy by 10% and in math by 14%. “This remarkable growth is the result of a solid curriculum and the dedication of our teaching staff,” said Mark Speno, Superintendent.
According to an analysis of student test results, six of the eight schools that were measured for literacy improved their scores. Two schools, Green Street School and Guilford Central School, had scores that improved by 10% and 13% respectively. Of nine schools measured for math proficiency, five improved their scores. Brattleboro Union High School, Putney Central School, and Vernon Elementary School improved their scores by 10% while Guilford Central School improved by 19%.
The WSESU has reduced the number of children in kindergarten through second grade who need extra reading support by 18%. This translates to an additional 80 children who can read at grade level, or six additional classrooms full of capable readers. It represents a 20% return on investment of the WSESU’s foundational reading program and professional development over the past two years.
“We are so grateful for the support of our communities,” said Anne Beekman, Chair of the WSESU Board. “Without community support of the school budgets, we would not be able to achieve these results for our students.”
The WSESU has set a goal for an additional 10% improvement in both literacy and math for the coming academic year. For more information on academic achievement for the WSESU, contact Superintendent Mark Speno at the WSESU Central Office, 802-254-3730.
