News Releases
MAP Testing Scheduled Between January 29 and February 23
Initial implementation of a new student assessment tool, the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) testing system, will begin in the next few weeks in District 15. Third- through eighth-grade students will be tested between Jan. 29 and Feb. 23.
The computer-based MAP tests measure student achievement in reading, language, and math. The tests accurately reflect each student’s knowledge and understanding and measure growth over time. Tests dynamically adjust to a student’s performance level, making test scores more accurate. Results are available within 24 hours. The MAP testing system was piloted at Carl Sandburg Junior High last year.
In the initial phase of MAP implementation, schools may choose to test students in only one of the three academic areas, according to James Garwood, executive director of administrative services. Beginning in spring 2007, all third- through eighth-grade students will be tested in all three areas, and in subsequent years, testing will take place in the fall, winter, and spring.
“The information provided through MAP testing will better enable us to make appropriate, data-driven decisions at the classroom, school, and district levels,” Garwood said.
“One significant advantage with MAP is that teachers get more accurate and timely information about individual students’ learning and academic growth,” explained Mary Zarr, executive director for curriculum, special services, and school improvement. “This allows them to make rapid adjustments in instruction to respond to identified needs.”
Administrators from all district schools recently completed MAP training and teachers will receive initial training at the district’s Institute Day on Jan. 22. Program assistants will receive training as test proctors on Jan. 24.
MAP testing will not replace the state-mandated Illinois Standards Achievement Tests (ISAT) and Illinois Measure of Annual Growth in English (IMAGE) given to certain grade levels every year. District 15 currently administers other types of assessments, but with the implementation of MAP testing, the necessity for other test instruments will be carefully reviewed. “Because MAP provides such specific and timely information, it may well eliminate the need for some other tests,” Garwood explained.
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