First data released from Utah's new school accountability system

"I see schools that are outstanding, and that doesn't surprise me, and other schools that are in other places," he said.

The scores range from two schools with a perfect 600 (Fox Hills Magnet School and Morningside Magnet School) to others in the low 100s, but officials add that non-numerical factors like demographics and socioeconomics play roles in a school's score. The two 600-point earning schools are magnet schools that cater to gifted students and several of the lowest-scoring schools are alternative high schools or centers for students with disabilities.

"There's a reason for some of the lows and a reason for some of the highs," USOE spokesman Mark Peterson said.

Checking school scores

• Visit www.schools.utah.gov

• Enter the Public School Data Gateway

• Select the UCAS Report

• Choose your district and school from the drop-down menus

• Report will show a comparison between your school and the state average, as well as a breakdown of your school's score and demographic information

E-mail: benwood@desnews.com