I would like to provide you with an update about the new Pennsylvania standardized test that was administered in the spring of 2015.
The new Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) was given to all Pennsylvania students, grades 3 through 8, in English Language Arts and Mathematics. This assessment was the first PSSA to be fully aligned to the more rigorous PA Core Standards, which the State Board of Education adopted in fall 2013. These tests are more rigorous and have led to significant decline in scores across Commonwealth, especially in Mathematics. Early analysis of the results show that, YSCP students, while still above the state average in most areas and grade levels, have also seen a significant decline in scores. The final scores and individual reports will be distributed once they are made public. When you receive your child’s results please keep the following in mind: · A decline in your child’s performance level does not indicate that your child learned or progressed less. Transition takes time and this was the first time these tests were administered. · It is not a realistic to compare your child’s scores in this year’s PSSA test with previous assessments as they are aligned to different standards. · Results of standardized tests are a snapshot of student performance and not the sole indicator of student achievement. A holistic approach with multiple measures is needed to better assess student progress. Please also keep in mind that more than 40% of School’s Performance Profile (SPP) calculations are made using PSSA achievement data. Our SPP score has been over 80% in the past but with these new assessments we expect our scores, and those across the state, to drop significantly. We have been working on updating curriculum that is aligned with the PA Core Standards, along with implementing best instructional practices for our students. We have a long-standing record of achievement and remain committed to continuous improvement for every child. No single assessment fully explains your child’s academic progress. We already begun to analyze and discuss PSSA data. We will continue to use the data to help us improve our curriculum and instruction so that we might provide each YSCP student with the skills needed for them to reach their individual potential. |
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