HUNTINGTON – Assistant Principal Anthony Sabonis has announced that a sample of Gateway High School seniors will take the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) exam on Wednesday, February 25. Letters were mailed to the parents of selected students in December.
The NAEP is the only ongoing, nationally representative measure of student achievement. Test results are used to create “The Nation’s Report Card”, which is used by the President and Congress to inform educational funding and policy decisions. It is different from the MCAS, PARCC and even the SAT exams, because it represents all high school students across the country.
Students will take a mathematics, reading or science assessment on computers. They will also be asked some background questions such as how often they use computer and the types of classes they take. It will take approximately two hours for students to complete the NAEP.
Results are completely confidential. Student names will not be recorded on any materials that leave the school. Test results will not affect student grades or educational progress in any way. No student, school or district results are reported – only statewide data is available.
Students may be excused from taking the test for any reason, are not required to finish the assessment, and may omit any test question. Participation is important, because each student will represent many other students and will be part of informing improvements to education. Parents who do not wish to have their child participate are asked to inform Sabonis (in writing or email) no later than Wednesday, February 11. Withdrawing will not affect a student’s grades or standing.
Students who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a Section 504 plan and receives accommodations for MCAS are advised that some MCAS accommodations are not permitted on NAEP. Questions may be directed to Sabonis by calling 413-685-1109 or emailing [email protected].
Anyone wishing to look at sample questions and additional information about the NAEP may go to http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/itmrls/.
