An file photo of eighth-grade students taking a state test...

An file photo of eighth-grade students taking a state test at Long Beach Middle School. (June 2, 2004) Credit: Newsday / Karen Wiles Stabile

 A state decision to raise passing standards on English and math tests has produced a dramatic drop in the number of students deemed academically proficient on Long Island and elsewhere across New York, outraging many local school officials.

State Department of Education officials, after more than a decade of reporting annual performance gains, reversed course Wednesday and announced big declines - often 20 percent or more - in test passing rates for grades 3-8 statewide.

>> Check out the video below and read John Hildebrand's full story on the changes and the reaction on Long Island

SCORES BY DISTRICT: Math -- English

Hofstra, faculty avoid strike for now ... LI utility service layoffs ... Picture This: Montauk Monster Credit: Newsday

Kalshi bans ex-congressman Santos ... Hofstra, faculty avoid strike for now ... Ex-clown sues LI entertainment company ... Little lending libraries

Hofstra, faculty avoid strike for now ... LI utility service layoffs ... Picture This: Montauk Monster Credit: Newsday

Kalshi bans ex-congressman Santos ... Hofstra, faculty avoid strike for now ... Ex-clown sues LI entertainment company ... Little lending libraries

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