If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting Suncoast Scribe!

The 2008 Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) scores are beginning to come in and Hillsborough County (which includes the city of Tampa) saw some happy results. Their eighth-graders got the best average writing score in the state on the essay portion of the test – 4.6 out of 6 points.

This is the seventh time since 2007 that Hillsborough eighth-graders have brought home the top writing scores in the state. Officials credit teacher training.

FCAT scores help parents to see where their children improved in various subjects. They can also determine whether or not a student will advance to the next grade level the following year. FCAT scores also determine school grades, or ratings. A grade of “A” or an improved score means money and status for a school.

Parents, you can see your child’s scores beginning at 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 13 on the FCAT Parent Network (www.fcat parentnetwork.com). Just use the secure login and password provided by your school.