Middle-income students' average test scores in fourth-grade reading and in fourth- and eighth-grade math showed no significant gains, even while nationwide scores trended up.

In Michigan, for example, the pass rates on fourth-grade reading and math tests at charter schools hovered around 45 percent between 1995 and 2000.

Mr. Clinton's plan calls for 90-minute tests of fourth-grade reading and eighth-grade mathematics to be given on a voluntary basis beginning in March 1999.

And President Clinton's proposed national tests in fourth-grade reading and eighth-grade math, while tabled by Congress for further study, still loom.

There was a two-point increase in the percentage of students at or above proficiency in eighth-grade reading, while fourth-grade reading was unchanged.

To the Editor: The debate over the creation of national tests in fourth-grade reading and eighth-grade math (Education page, Sept. 10) misses the point.

In fourth-grade reading, the gaps between state and national reports are equally large.

Connecticut, where fourth-grade reading and math scores are the highest in the nation, has long been regarded as one of the most innovative states in student testing.

In fourth-grade reading, New York City's gap between the average score of black and white students shrank by 10 points.

Last January, Clinton ordered the Department of Education to prepare exams to test fourth-grade reading and eighth-grade math.