HARRISBURG — Nearly two-thirds of Pennsylvania's 11th graders failed the state's new science test during the 2007-08 school year, according to results released Tuesday by the state Education Department.

Only 36 percent of 11th graders scored at grade level on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment science test, Education Secretary Gerald Zahorchak said.

The results show that Pennsylvania needs more rigorous statewide graduation standards, Zahorchak said.

"This is further evidence that local high school graduation requirements and local assessments, which are currently under the control of school boards, are not ensuring that our graduates are ready for college or careers," he said.

A plan pushed by Gov. Ed Rendell's administration to mandate new statewide graduation tests stalled this year amid opposition from lawmakers.

Instead, the department is developing a voluntary testing program, starting in the 2009-10 school year.

The science test was given in the spring to students in grades four, eight and 11. The PSSA has tested students in math, reading and writing since 2002.

Eighty-two percent of fourth-graders and 53 percent of eighth-graders scored at grade level on the science test.