Each year, students in grades K-8 complete an online assessment in reading, math and language arts* in the fall and in the spring. This assessment was created by the Northwestern Education Association (NWEA) called Measure of Academic Progress (MAP) for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. These instantaneous results help identify struggling students immediately, so that these students can receive additional assistance. (* Grades 2 – 4 only.)
In the fall, the state tests grades 3 – 8 and 10 using the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Exam or WKCE. Statewide 4, 8 and 10th grade students are assessed in reading, language arts, writing, math, science and social studies with the WKCE. Grades 3, 5, 6 and 7 are only assessed in reading and math. Medford’s results on the WKCE can be found on the WINSS section of the Department of Public Instruction’s website: http://dpi.wi.gov/sig/index.html.
All of the data collected from assessments are used to assess curriculum choices, and to help identify students who need additional support beyond the regular classroom instruction. Additionally, diagnostic tests are used to find out each student’s target area of concern, and short one-minute assessments are used to track the progress students are making while participating in intervention programs.
State Test Results
One goal of the No Child Left Behind Act, along with one of the goals of the district, is to have all students score in the proficient and advanced range on the WKCE state test. This year, the Medford schools made adequate yearly progress (AYP), and its students continue to outperform the state in almost every area.
To view graphs showing WKCE testing results for grades 3 - 8 and 10, click here (.pdf format)