March 16, 2025
Good evening Wildcat families,
As we move into March and the spring season, I wanted to take a moment to provide important information about our assessment schedule and how we use this data for planning purposes.
Our students participate in several types of standardized assessments throughout the year, each serving a specific purpose:
NC Check-Ins 2.0 for Math, Reading, and Science. These periodic assessments help us monitor student progress on grade-level standards throughout the year, allowing teachers to make timely adjustments to instruction. Although individual student proficiency on these standards are important, the collective data we gain from these assessments are extremely important in ensuring we are reviewing and reteaching areas that their may be a lack of understanding.
STAR Assessments for Math and Reading (Renaissance) These computer-adaptive tests provide teachers with immediate feedback on student growth and achievement, helping to identify specific skill gaps and strengths. The data from these assessments provide a comparison of our students to peers from across the country who also take the STAR test. Our students take these assessments monthly and this data helps determine support groups and ensures we are able to comply with the Multi Tiered System of Support that NCDPI requires.
End-of-Grade Tests (EOGs) for Math, Reading, and Science These state-mandated assessments measure student mastery of grade-level content standards and are administered at the end of the academic year. EOGs are also what determine the overall school performance grade for the year and help drive scheduling for students for the following year.
In addition to these standardized measures, our teachers utilize a variety of other research-based assessments as part of our tiered instructional approach to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
The data gathered from these assessments serves several important purposes:
Driving Classroom Instruction - Teachers analyze results to adjust teaching strategies and focus on areas where students need additional support.
Monitoring Pacing - Results help ensure we are progressing through curriculum at an appropriate rate according to district pacing guides.
Preparing for Success - Identifying strengths and areas for growth allows us to provide targeted support to ensure all students are prepared for end-of-year expectations.
Informing Scheduling Decisions - Assessment results are one factor considered when making placement decisions for the upcoming school year, including eligibility for advanced math classes.
Advanced Math Placement
One of the main scheduling items that is informed by this data is our student’s placement in advanced math classes. Please take a moment to review the Advanced Math Letter and the Advanced Math Criteria that will be used as we prepare for the 2025-2026 school year.
Thank you for your continued support as we work together to ensure every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. If you have any questions about our assessment program or how the data is used to support your child's education, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Mr. Robinson
