District 11 is pleased to introduce a new assessment instrument in your child’s school this school year.  Your child will take tests called the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) during the window that begins on September 10.   Your child will not take the Terra Nova this year as we transition to the MAP tests.

 

We give students MAP tests to determine your child’s achievement level and to measure academic growth throughout the school year, and from year to year in the areas of Reading, Language Usage, and Mathematics.

 

Your child will take the tests on a computer.   MAP tests are unique in that they adapt during the test to be appropriate for your child’s level of learning. As a result, each student has the same opportunity to succeed and maintain a positive attitude toward testing.  And with MAP tests, we can administer shorter tests and use less class time while still receiving detailed, accurate information about your child’s growth. Over the next few days, your child will spend a total of about three hours completing these tests.  I have personally used the MAP tests in another district and observed students actually enjoying this testing experience.  In a pilot last year in District 11 we also saw a very positive acceptance by students and teachers.

 

Each school year, students in grades 1-10 take the tests in September and again in the spring.  Following each testing period, you will receive a report showing your child’s achievement level and growth.

 

We are very excited to begin a new era that focuses on every child’s individual growth and achievement. Partnering to help all kids learn, parents and teachers can have a profound positive effect on the lives of our children. MAP will assist us all in achieving our learning and instructional goals.

 

Please feel free to phone or email me with any questions or concerns about your student’s assessment program.  I am happy to answer your questions.

 

Very truly yours,

 

 

David B. Thomas, Ph.D.

Director of Assessment

719-520-2343

thomadb@d11.org