Hopkins workshop spotlights testing, local performance gaps and classroom assessment alternatives

Hopkins Public Schools used the September workshop to present three linked assessment topics: district data on student-body composition and test proficiency; state assessment (MCA and ACCESS) technicalities and trends; and classroom assessment practices aimed at reducing high-stakes stress and improving instruction.

NUT GRAF: Presenters emphasized that statewide tests (MCAs and ACCESS) are only one aspect of student assessment. District analysts showed statewide correlations between school demographics (percent students of color, FRPL eligibility) and MCA proficiency and described the statistical adjustments and participation rules that affect reported proficiency. A separate presentation urged more balanced, classroom-focused assessment practices — formative checks, standards-aligned end-of-unit assessments and culturally relevant tasks — to raise…