LAS VEGAS -- Clark County School District officials said they have received good marks from the federal government.

The superintendent unveiled results from the No Child Left Behind act. The new study shows most schools here have shown improvement, but some are not meeting federal standards.

"It's been a tougher test," said Walt Rulffes, CCSD Superintendent. "In spite of that, more students have meet the AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress) targets."

Many Clark County schools showed improvements by federal standards in English and Math. This year, 216 schools here made AYP, up from 183 last year. Officials said 123 schools did not make the progress standard.

Some Clark County schools received above-average marks -- 11 schools were given exemplary status and 43 high achieving.

About 30 high schools here did not meet standards and are on the government's watch list or needs improvement list.

This information directly conflicts with the "Kids Count" study results released Wednesday. Nevada ranked the highest for high school drop outs.

"It means we're not doing as well as the national average," said Keith Schwer, the "Kids Count" executive director.

Clark County school officials said the drop-out rate is declining each year, thanks to programs and concerted efforts and relationships with teachers.

"I think we're starting to see some gains in reducing the drop-out rate," said Lauren Kochut-Rost, Deputy Superintendent of Instruction.

Rulffes said the standards will be more difficult for next year's examination. He also said the county did so because the school district had a campaign to get high school students to go to school on the day of AYP tests.