Overall scores for the statewide math test were lower this year, but the Star Tribune's headline on the subject was an editorial comment ("Math scores disappointing," Sept. 15), and the article shed no light on who might be "disappointed" by a test that has changed dramatically from a year ago.

 In fact, Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius acknowledges the higher bar set for students "with tougher new standards." Add to this the inclusion of the English language learners in the results and a switch to testing by computer.

Predictably, the results are lower, yet the reader is given the message of another disappointing education outcome. If the 100-yard dash became the 110-yard dash, would we boo our high school athletes if they failed to run faster times?

How about some applause for students and teachers who continue to accept and work with the new education challenges?

STEVE WATSON, MINNEAPOLIS