How is this test data used by MUSD?
At the beginning of the school year, teachers and principals analyze the state test data by grade, subject and standard. Teachers use the information to set improvement goals for their subjects, plan instruction, form groups and to screen students for special help and enrichment. During the course of the school year, teachers will assess students regularly using District benchmark exams, classroom tests, in-class participation and the students’ school work. As teachers plan instruction, they utilize information about students’ mastery of standards and skill levels to support their learning in strategic ways. The term educators use for this process is “differentiated instruction.” Teachers collaborate with each other in the planning process to tackle difficult instructional challenges and to share effective practices. These research-based practices are linked with both increases on test scores and systematic improvement of student learning.