Every Spring, Freshman and Sophomores across Utah take the Aspire test- a standardized test meant to help prepare students for the ACT.  Even though it doesn’t directly affect college admissions, it still plays a big role in measuring student progress. 

The Aspire test covers English, reading, math, and science, and is designed to track growth and predict how students might do on the ACT their junior year. According to high school English teacher Kassidee Underwood, the goal is simple: “ The purpose of Aspire testing is to measure student growth… and prepare students for the ACT test they will take in their junior year.” 

Even though students don’t know exactly what will be on the test, teachers still try to prepare them as best they can. “ We focus on time management like skim and scan, and we go over helpful test tricks,” Underwood said. “We also review what the test might look like.” 

Students, however, don’t always see the test the same way. 

One sophomore said the Aspire test brings a lot of pressure, even though it doesn’t directly benefit students. “ It feels like too much pressure for something that’s not really about me,” she said. “ It feels more about the school looks than how I actually do.” 

Teachers understand some of that frustration. Underwood explained that while Aspire is useful for tracking growth, it may not fully show what students are capable of. “ It’s a great way to measure growth… but it’s hard to know if it accurately reflects students’ abilities if students do not do their best.” 

Another issue is how the test is taken. “ I’d go back to paper and pencil,” Underwood said. “I am tired of everything being on Chromebooks.” 

There’s also pressure on schools and teachers since test scores can affect school ratings. At the same time, Underwood pointed out a bigger concern: “ We have also seen a rise in apathy in this generation. Students do not have the drive to try their best anymore.” 

At the end of the day, Aspire is meant to help students get ready for what’s ahead. But for many students, it raises a bigger question- who is the test really for?