Our Testing Program
Testing is an important way for us to measure how our students are learning and growing, and to ensure our schools are providing students with what they need to be successful.
Our schools use a variety of tests. The two most common tests - which are taken by the majority of our students - are the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) and Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) measures of academic performance.
What’s the difference between the MCA-II and the NWEA tests?
|
|
MCA-II |
NWEA |
|
How often is it given? |
Once per year – in the spring |
Up to 4 times per year – in the fall, winter, spring and summer |
|
When are results available? |
Over the summer/fall |
Within 72 hours |
|
Who takes it? |
Grades 3-8, 10 & 11 |
Grades 2-9 (selected 10-12) |
|
How is it administered? |
Standard paper and pencil test |
Computerized |
|
What’s it measure? |
Student, school and district performance on academic standards |
Individual student growth and academic performance |
|
How is it used? |
System accountability: Measures how students are meeting the Minnesota Academic Standards and determines if individual schools and the entire district is making adequate yearly progress (AYP) as defined by the No Child Left Behind Act. |
Placement in district programs; Measuring individual student growth; Uncovering individual student’s academic strengths and weaknesses; Assists teachers in modifying instruction to meet the needs of students. |
Additional Resources:
- State assessments and testing (This link takes you to the Minnesota Department of Education website)