Utah schools enhance SAGE testing relevance through ACT estimator tool

During the Washington County School District's recent meeting on January 9, 2025, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing student engagement with the SAGE test was unveiled. This initiative seeks to address the common student apathy towards standardized testing by demonstrating its relevance to future academic success, particularly in relation to the ACT.

The discussion highlighted that SAGE scores from middle school can serve as reliable indicators of future ACT performance. By analyzing data from eighth graders over the past three years, educators found a strong correlation between SAGE scores and subsequent ACT results. This insight aims to motivate students to take the SAGE test seriously, as it provides a low-stakes opportunity to prepare for high-stakes assessments later in their academic careers.

To facilitate this, the district introduced an ACT estimator tool that allows students to input their SAGE scores and receive an estimated ACT score. This tool is designed to help students understand their academic standing and identify areas for improvement before they take the ACT in high school. The district plans to promote this tool through middle schools and encourage parents to engage with their children about their SAGE scores.

In addition to the SAGE initiative, Legacy Elementary School reported on its successful dual immersion program, which has significantly improved student engagement and performance. The school has focused on data-driven decision-making to enhance instruction and has seen a marked improvement in SAGE scores, rising from the lowest to the highest-ranked Title 1 school in the district over six years.

Furthermore, Pine View High School introduced a reading intervention program that aims to streamline support for students transitioning from elementary to high school. This program emphasizes collaboration among schools within the cone site to ensure that students receive consistent support and do not fall behind as they progress through grades.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving student outcomes through innovative programs and collaborative efforts among schools. The initiatives discussed are expected to foster greater academic success and engagement among students, ultimately preparing them for future challenges.