Of all the sophomores, juniors and seniors that took the Exit Exam in the Stockton Unified School District, only about 64% passed the math and English tests. That’s compared with nearly 80% in both subjects statewide.
 
Spokesman Rick Brewer says his district has some unique challenges. 

"We have several that have been hit by the foreclosure crisis, not only in our district but county wide." 

And Brewer says they also have a large population of students from migrant farm worker families. But he’s quick to say those aren’t excuses for the low scores. 

"Maybe we have some challenges but you know that’s what we’re given and we need to meet those challenges."

Meanwhile, sophomores, juniors and seniors in Sacramento, Placer, Yolo and El Dorado counties all passed the exam at higher rates compared with statewide results.