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Consortium Students Reach Highest‑Ever Reading Scores — For the Second Year in a Row
The Omaha Catholic School Consortium is celebrating another major milestone: for the second year in a row, students across all six schools have reached their highest reading scores ever on the nationally normed STAR assessment.
What the Winter 2025-2026 Results Show
Consortium students take STAR Reading assessments three times a year. The newest winter data highlights a clear, steady upward trend.
Here’s what we are especially proud of:
- Nearly half of all Consortium students are reading better than 64% of students their age nationwide.
- Reading scores have climbed 15 percentage points since the 2021–2022 school year.
- The number of students scoring in the lowest range has dropped by 11 percentage points during that same period.
These gains are especially meaningful at a time when reading scores are declining nationally and in many nearby districts.
“These results show what’s possible when we identify reading needs early and provide the right support at the right time,” said Andrew Bauer, Consortium Director of Education. “We’ve invested in professional development and high‑quality curriculum aligned with the latest research on the science of reading.”
Bauer said Consortium schools are on a strong trajectory for continued growth. That’s because of the dedication of the teachers, as well as early intervention and a comprehensive and research-backed approach to reading, phonic and phonemic awareness.
Why This Growth Matters
Research consistently shows that strong reading skills are one of the best predictors of long‑term academic success. When students read confidently, everything else opens up — from science and social studies to faith formation and real‑world problem‑solving.
That’s why the Consortium invests in evidence-based reading instruction, high-quality materials and professional development for educators. These are the same pillars highlighted in Nebraska’s statewide literacy plan. When families choose Consortium schools and when supporters invest in our mission, they help ensure that every student, regardless of background, has access to the tools and care they need to become confident and capable readers for life.
Winter Reading Growth Over Time
- Winter 2021-2022: 31.9%
- Winter 2022-2023: 31.8%
- Winter 2023-2024: 33.2%
- Winter 2024-2025: 46.5%
- Winter 2025-2026: 47.5%
The People Behind the Progress
Teachers across the Consortium continue to be the driving force behind this growth. They analyze data, adjust instruction and work to meet students at their learning level.
Consortium schools meet students where they are, using data‑driven instruction and flexible grouping to support learners working above, at or below grade level. By embracing the diverse academic needs, teachers ensure every child grows—no matter their starting point.
“Our teachers respond to challenges, adapt when results fall short and continually look for ways to build on past successes,” Bauer said. “Their commitment is directly tied to the progress we’re seeing.”
Read more about how Holy Cross uses test scores to address its diverse population.
More About the Consortium
Our schools reflect the rich diversity of the neighborhoods we serve, with more than half of students coming from diverse backgrounds and many families qualifying for free or reduced lunch. Our mission is simple: make a high‑quality, faith‑filled education accessible to every family who desires it.