Measuring Growth through MAP Assessments

For many years, schools within the Edvance family of Christian schools have used standardized testing as a tool to measure student achievement for the purposes of making curriculum decisions. In recent years, Edvance has spoken to its member schools about their needs, the value and weaknesses of standardized assessment, and the available alternatives. In 2015, Measures of Academic Progress® (MAP®) was recommended and piloted by 3 member schools. KCS participated in that study and along with most Edvance schools, has been using MAP ever since in grades 2 through 8.
We give students MAP® tests to determine their instructional level and to measure academic growth throughout the school year, and from year to year in the areas of literacy and math.
MAP® is administered on a computer or iPad, and is unique in that it adapts to each child’s individual level. As a result, each student has the same opportunity to succeed and maintain a positive attitude toward testing. Compared to previous testing platforms, the assessments are shorter, and use less class time while providing detailed, accurate information about each student’s growth.
MAP* results are generally for internal use in planning curriculum and developing new programs. However, parents can request a meeting to discuss the assessment and their child(ren) in November.
The testing window opens September 23rd. Please communicate with teachers if you are planning an absence as arranging catch up sessions can be challenging.