It’s
springtime which brings about longer days, warmer weather, pollen and of course
spring testing. Dreaded by many, testing
is perceived by some as a necessary evil in the lives of teachers and
students. This could not be more
wrong! Testing may not be fun, but it is
essential to the work of our teachers and leaders.
Throughout
the year, the scholars of Team Selma take a number of standardized tests known
as Performance Series. A standardized
test is an assessment that requires the test-takers to answer the same
questions in a controlled setting.
Although not loved due to their time-consuming nature and concerns of cultural
bias, these tests are generally considered to be a fair and objective way of
assessing the academic achievement of students.
Performance
Series provides a computer adaptive test designed to determine students’ level
of mastery of reading, math and science standards. Our scholars in grades 3-8 take this
assessment as part of our state accountability.
The first, or benchmark assessment, was administered in the fall. A midyear assessment was taken at the start
of the second semester and this final test will be completed this month. Eleventh graders take the ACT as part of the
state accountability system.
Why
do these spring assessments matter? Although
there are a number of measures that inform the state, district and school
report cards, student proficiency and growth on these tests are a major
component. We like to see how our
scholars are performing compared to students in other districts throughout the
state. Our teachers and leaders can
learn and grow as we explore what is working well for us and discover more
effective practices by networking with professionals from other parts of the
state.
Aside
from the grade that we will ultimately receive on our district report card,
spring tests also let us know whether or not our teaching and learning approaches
are effective. Over time, we can
determine which teachers are having the greatest impact on improving student
achievement. In doing so, we use the
data from assessments throughout the year and make adjustments on our
practices. This is extremely important
as we prepare our scholars to be successful beyond high school.
Test
results, along with daily class assignments, also reveal which of our scholars
need additional support and which are ready to be accelerated. Intervention is provided to students who are
not making adequate progress while other students may be given opportunities
for more challenging work.
Spring
testing signifies that we are nearing the end of another school year. I look forward to seeing our scholars excel
as we prepare them for the next year of their life. It may not be fun, but testing is
necessary. Parents please be sure that
your scholars get plenty of rest and have a healthy breakfast each
morning. Let’s show the world that Team
Selma’s scholars are amazing and prepared to be our future leaders!
For
more information, email me at avis.williams@selmacityschools.org
