ORANGE BEACH — For the second consecutive year, every third-grade student in Orange Beach City Schools (OBCS) has scored at or above grade level on the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program …
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ORANGE BEACH — For the second consecutive year, every third-grade student in Orange Beach City Schools (OBCS) has scored at or above grade level on the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) reading assessment, despite the state raising cut scores this year.
This accomplishment builds on the historic achievement in 2024, when OBCS was the only school district in Alabama to reach 100% at or above grade level in third-grade reading.
Repeating that performance under even more rigorous standards confirms the district’s continued excellence in early literacy instruction and its unwavering commitment to student success.
OBCS Superintendent Randy Wilkes praised the students and staff, stating, “Meeting this mark two years in a row — especially with tougher expectations — is a powerful testament to the dedication of our teachers, school leadership, the support of our families and the potential of our students. This is not just a score; it’s a signal that every child in our district is being prepared for long-term academic success.”
The ACAP reading assessment serves as a critical benchmark for Alabama’s Literacy Act, which emphasizes the importance of reading proficiency by the end of third grade. Students not meeting grade-level expectations may face promotion decisions and additional interventions. With 100% of third graders meeting or exceeding those expectations, OBCS continues to lead the state in ensuring early literacy is a priority.
Wilkes added, “We believe that strong readers become strong learners. Our goal is not only to meet the standard but to set it.”