(AP Photo)
By MARK SCOLFORO Associated Press
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Newly released test results show student scores on Pennsylvania standardized tests fell sharply last year in most categories. But state education officials cautioned the numbers released Friday were so distorted by pandemic conditions that they are of limited use for comparison to previous years, particularly regarding statewide trends. Results of the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment exams for grades three to eight show broad declines in both math and English language arts. The Keystone Exams that assess algebra, literature and biology for high school students had more mixed results. National experts say standardized test scores across the country have seen substantial declines during the ongoing pandemic.