Accountability For Results
As part of the accountability provisions set forth by NCLB, all schools are required to make Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and to report that progress to parents in “easy-to-read, detailed report cards”. By 2014, NCLB requires schools to teach all children to proficiency in reading, mathematics, and science.
NCLB requires that all students be tested annually in grades 3-8 and at least once during grades 10-12 in both reading and mathematics. By 2007-08, students will also be tested in science at least once during the elementary, middle, and high school years. In Connecticut, student performance is measured using the Connecticut Mastery Test (CMT) and the Connecticut Academic Performance Test (CAPT). These results are used to determine if a school has made adequate yearly progress (AYP). AYP is the minimum level of improvement that states, school districts and schools must achieve each year. If a school does not make AYP for two consecutive years, it will be identified as a school “in need of improvement.”
Achievement results and participation rates will be calculated for the following groups in each school and district:
- All students in the school or district
- Economically disadvantaged students
- Students with disabilities
- English Language Learners (ELL)
- White, Black and Hispanic students
If the school reaches the goal for percent of students at or above proficient but fails to have 95% of the whole school or any subgroup take the state
assessment (standard administration or the CMT/CAPT skills checklist) the school will NOT have made AYP.
What does this mean for my child with a disability?
It means that schools will expect that all students participate in some version of the CMT/CAPT assessment program. For students with disabilities, there are a couple of important things to consider. The state and NCLB allow students with disabilities to take the assessment with specific accommodations if needed, and if appropriate an alternative assessment. These are based on individual needs and are decisions that must be made by the planning and placement team. State Testing Accommodations: A Look at Their Value and Validity
For more information about school accountability, access your school’s Strategic School Profile.
Standardized testing has become a critical issue in schools today. Whether we agree with the how, when or whys of standardized testing, we need to face the fact that tests are being required. Help your child prepare for standardized testing by reviewing our, Survival Tips for Standardized Testing.
