Results from statewide science exams released to school districts earlier this month put Montgomery County schools in an unusual position: not first.

While the district's fifth- and eighth grade test-takers scored higher than the state average, they were outdone by counterparts in Howard County, where 79 percent of fifth-graders and 83 percent of eighth-graders scored at least proficient.

In Montgomery County, 64 percent of fifth-graders and 70 percent of eighth-graders did the same, compared with 60 percent and 61 percent, respectively, of students across the state.

"We're pleased to be above the state performance level," said Kate Harrison, spokeswoman for Montgomery County schools, adding 2007 was the first year the test was administered "so no one is rushing to judgments."

The standardized science test joined longstanding reading and math tests as part of the school systems' yearly requirements under No Child Left Behind.