The state education department reported improvements for the New London school district in statewide performance test results released today.

The city, which is being governed by a state-appointed special master, showed progress in the percentage of students who reached or exceeded state or federal standards in 70 percent of tested grades and subject areas.

Fifth- and sixth-graders showed particular improvements, according to a state news release.

For example, this year, 39 percent of the city's sixth-graders reached or exceeded the state's "goal" level in math, up from 28 percent last year. In addition, 46 percent of sixth-graders met or surpassed the state's writing goal, up from 33 percent last year.

"We are pleased and proud to see the level of gain accelerated in New London this year," state Department of Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor said in a conference call today with reporters.