Birmingham City Schools Sets State Standard for Math Recovery Post-COVID

Birmingham City Schools has shown remarkable academic improvement over the last five years. A comprehensive study analyzing 8,000 school districts across 30 states indicates Alabama stands alone, with students achieving average mathematics proficiency levels that surpass those from before the pandemic. Within the state, BCS leads in mathematics recovery and ranks seventh among large urban districts. Superintendent Mark Sullivan remarked on the district's academic journey, noting past challenges—including 15 schools marked with an F on the state report card. Just two years ago, that figure was halved to seven schools. Key strategies such as intersessions, supplemental instructional weeks following each grading period, and enhanced wraparound services and tutoring have contributed to this turnaround. Recently, Sullivan announced that BCS received its highest rating from the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) and has recorded the lowest number of failing schools since the program's inception. “This reflects the dedication of educators, students, parents, and the school board,” Sullivan emphasized at the press conference. The complete outcomes of the 2024-2025 ACAP testing will be released later this year.