Scholars attending University Prep’s elementary schools are required to participate in a range of school-based and state assessments. The information gained from assessments allows parents, scholars, and educators to monitor progress and performance of both individuals and groups of scholars as well as make decisions regarding the design and implementation of instruction.
Assessment and testing results are shared with parents via report cards and conferences and directly with scholars throughout the year. It is important that families understand the testing information and results which are shared, as they represent a critical look into how children are performing against established state standards. Questions about assessment results should be directed to scholars’ teachers or school administration. We are always available to discuss the content of assessments, their purpose, and results, as well as help with providing resources to address gaps that might be present.
Lastly, as University Prep is a college-prep institution, we believe scholars should be eager to “show what they know,” approaching assessments with confidence and a growth mindset. One day, when scholars are alumni of our program and pursing a range of career opportunities as adults, they will engage with a variety of assessments that often serve as ‘gate keepers.’ In short, they’ll have to pass those tests to become the professionals they aspire to be. Thus, we work intentionally to establish a mindset that assessments help us understand what we know and don’t know, and that we can always learn and grow from them. Further, we should be proud of the knowledge we gain and excited to ‘show it,’ when it comes time to take the test.