Testing, Testing...

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