Key points:
Ensuring student achievement is on track is critical, particularly as post-pandemic academic progress still remains slower for some student groups. When districts have the right assessments in place, educators are better able to help measure student progress.
This is why district leaders must have the right tools to weigh which assessments will best support students in their academic journeys. A new whitepaper outlines six essential questions to ask when making decisions about assessment tools.
1. Why are we assessing our students? Assessments determine what students know and what they can do. Your district’s assessments should support the priorities district leadership teams have outlined.
2. How easy is it for teachers to understand the data? After all, teachers must be able to interpret available data if they are to act on it. A high-quality assessment will also offer action steps after teachers are able to understand data.
3. Do the data support district leaders’ big-picture decision-making? Teachers must be able to understand and act on data, but district leaders want to recognize long-term trends and get big-picture views of student achievement.
4. How can we get the right data to inform decisions? Multiple assessment types and formats can ensure the right kinds of data at the right times.
5. Do the assessments align with our technology and curriculum investments? Close alignment means educators can be confident in their measurement of students’ skills and progress.
6. Are the assessments supported by relevant and timely professional learning? A high-quality assessment system ensures support for teachers and leaders.
For more details on these questions, check out this key resource on assessments.
