 |
|
|
Testing Programs
STAR Test Results
Testing Programs
|
| | The California STAR Test results were released on Thursday, August 31. Chico Unified scored 754, up from a 2005 score of 748. Scores from individual schools varied, but we can gain very valuable information about student learnng from each score. Teachers and administrators will be reviewing these results to validate the great efforts being given at each school and to seek insights into ways we may improve our program. | |
|
|
| | The District maintains an annual testing program comprised of nationally normed, standardized tests, state subject area tests, and District tests and assessments.
1. Basic proficiency in reading, composition, spelling, mathematics and computer skills is assessed in elementary, junior high and high school using both standardized tests and District developed assessments.
2. Nationally normed, standardized tests are administered annually in the areas of reading, language skills and mathematics for all students in grades 2-11. In addition, students in grades 9-11 are tested in science and grades 2-8 are tested in spelling. These tests are used to compare the achievement of the District's students with other students from across the nation, to assist in assessing individual students strengths and weaknesses, to assist in instructional planning, and as part of an evaluation of classroom, site and District program effectiveness.
3. Attainment of California content standards is tested annually with the California Standards Tests in English Language Arts and Mathematics. In addition, 8th, 10th and 11th grade students take the California History/Social Science Standards Tests. High school students who are enrolled in college preparatory science courses take the appropriate California Science Standards test.
4. State law requires the development of a state test that school districts must give to students whose home language is not English. This test is called the California English Language Development Test (CELDT). The purpose of this test is:
- to identify new students who are English Learners, in kindergarten through grade 12.
- to monitor their progress in learning English.
- to help decide when they are proficient in English.
5. Physical Fitness is assessed in grades 5, 7 and 9 each school year in accordance with State mandates.
6. The Academic Performance Index (API) measures performance and progress of a school. It is a numeric index or scale that ranges from a low of 200 to a high of 1000. The state has set 800 as the API score that schools should strive to meet. Schools that fall short of the target will be required to meet annual growth targets until their goal is achieved. Schools that already meet or exceed the 800 API should continue working to improve the academic performance of all students. Results of the norm-referenced test and California Standards Tests, given in the spring as part of the state's Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) program, are used to calculate a school's API.
7. Seniors in the class of 2006 will be the first California public school students who must pass a High School Exit Examination(HSEE) to receive a high school diploma. State law authorized this new graduation requirement in 1999 (Senate Bill 2, Statutes of 1999). The purpose of the HSEE is to help improve student achievement in high school and make sure that graduates meet identified state content standards in reading, writing, and mathematics.
| |
|
|
|
