The Francis Howell School District uses formal assessment data to monitor student progress and program effectiveness through early childhood screening, health screening, state-required achievement assessments, assessments for program planning and assessments to determine student eligibility for special programs. The District also administers standardized tests to monitor progress in general academic achievement and to measure the effectiveness of District programs. Additionally, the District has developed local assessments to provide practice for the Missouri Assessment Plan (MAP), End of Course (EOC) and to assess areas not measured by the MAP.
The Francis Howell School District believes that the core purpose of assessment is to enhance student learning. A comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to assessment is necessary to provide educators with a complete picture of individual student performance as well as program effectiveness.
Formal assessments in the Francis Howell School District are administered to benefit students both directly and indirectly. These assessments benefit students directly when they document individual achievement and progress, and when they identify specific areas of academic strength and weakness. Indirect benefits are obtained when formal assessment data are used to revise and improve educational programs. This data also provides educators with information about instructional effectiveness in relation to student learning.
Francis Howell students will have opportunities to demonstrate what they know and can do on various standardized tests throughout their years in the district. These formal assessments provide a “snapshot” of student performance at a given place and time. To complete the picture of student progress, daily ongoing assessment, embedded in the teaching process and used to provide regular feedback, will also be conducted as an essential means to enhance student learning.
Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) Testing
Grade-Level Assessments
End of Course Exams
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requires the MAP End of Course (EOC) Assessments for Algebra I, English II, Biology, and Government. These assessments will be given to students enrolled in the courses teaching similar content and skills. These tests are not specific to any grade level, but rather to course content. Francis Howell took the English I EOC in 2009-2010 on a voluntary basis. Students taking Algebra I in Middle School will take the Algebra I EOC exam while they are enrolled in the course. The testing windows are as follows:
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Fall: October 10, 2012 - January 25, 2013
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Spring: February 25, 2013 - May 31, 2013
EXPLORE Test
Through EXPLORE, students' strengths and weaknesses can be identified early in their educational development, when they have the greatest opportunity to establish a four-year program of studies that will help them achieve their career and educational goals. Learn more about the EXPLORE Test.
PLAN Test
The PLAN program helps 10th graders build a solid foundation for future academic and career success and provides information needed to address school districts' high-priority issues. It is a comprehensive guidance resource that helps students measure their current academic development, explore career/training options, and make plans for the remaining years of high school and post-graduation years. Learn more about the PLAN Test.
ACT Test
The ACT is America's most widely accepted college entrance exam. It assesses high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. Learn more about ACT Testing.
Assessment Plan
The Francis Howell School District 2012-2013 Comprehensive Assessment Plan is a document that details the instruments and strategies used to monitor the quality of the District’s instructional program, guidance services, and screenings for participation in special programs.