Fridley Assessment Info

Message to Families about Testing

Making the Most of Standardized Testing Season

Every spring, students across the state take tests. These tests, like the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments, or MCAs, might seem confusing to some families. They might wonder why they're important if they don't affect a student's grades in class.

Think of these tests as snapshots of what students have learned. You know how on picture day you get one photo that captures how you looked that year? Well, these tests do the same thing but for what you've learned in school. But remember, they only show part of the whole story.

Just like looking at all the photos from your class, grade, or school gives you a better idea of what's going on, these tests give teachers and schools valuable information. They can use this info to decide how to better teach and help students. The state and the public can use the data to make sure all students get fair chances to learn.

What are the MCAs?

The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs) are tests in reading, math, and science. They happen every year and are based on what students should know according to the Minnesota Academic Standards.

All students in Minnesota public and charter schools take these tests. Students in grades 3 to 8 take reading and math tests in the spring. In high school, there's a reading test in grade 10 and a math test in grade 11. Science tests are in grades 5, 8, and once in high school.

Most students take these tests online during school hours. But some may get paper tests if they have an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or a 504 plan. Students with special needs take a different test called the Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS), which is given on paper by a teacher or administrator.

Why do students take the MCAs?

The MCAs help schools see if they're teaching what they're supposed to according to state standards. Schools use the results to make their teaching materials and support for students better. Teachers check where students are doing great so they can keep teaching those skills well. They also find areas where they can make their teaching even better according to the standards.

Preparing for testing day

Parents and families can support their students for the statewide tests by explaining why they're important.  Using encouraging words about the tests, trying out ways to reduce stress, getting enough sleep, and having a nutritious meal before testing can all help students perform their best.  

Student participation is important

Taking part in the MCAs is crucial because it helps your school and district see if they're teaching well and if all students are getting a good education. School leaders use the results to decide how to spend money and resources to help all students. The more students who join in, the better the info is for making smart decisions. Also, high schoolers can use their MCA scores to decide which courses to take at a Minnesota State college or university. If they do well, they might not need to take extra classes for that subject.

The links below provides information for parents (Parent Fact Sheet) about the MCA math, reading, and science tests.  The calendar below gives a time frame of when the assessments will be administered at each building.  Please see newsletter and/or campus messenger information for more specifics at each site.

Click below for more information about what the reports mean and how to make sense of them.

These MCA test specs provide examples of questions the students may encounter at the specified grade levels.

Parents can decide if they want their child to take state tests. If you choose not to have your child take the test, please fill out one of these refusal forms and give it back to your child's school.