North Carolina's fourth- and eighth-graders scored better than average in math tests this year, though the scores have remained relatively unchanged since 2003.

The results are from the N.C. Assessment of Educational Progress, or NAEP, a series of federally funded achievement tests often referred to as the nation's report card. Students are tested in nine subjects, but are tested most often in math and reading.

Average math scores for fourth-graders this year were the same or higher in North Carolina than in all but four states; scores for North Carolina's eighth-graders were the same or higher than their counterparts in all but 14 states.

Still, only 43 percent of fourth-graders and 35 percent of eighth-graders in North Carolina performed at the proficient level, meaning they show the knowledge and skills they should have at that grade level.

Boys and girls scored essentially the same, but black and Hispanic student averages lagged behind those of white students, and those who are eligible for free or reduced-price lunches averaged lower scores than students who are not eligible.

Math scores rose significantly in the state and nationwide between 1990, when North Carolina trailed the nationwide average, and 2003.

Since then gains have slowed.

The average state score of 244 for fourth-graders this year is up two points since 2003, while the average of 284 for eighth-graders is up three points.