Board approves revised science essential elements for students in alternate assessment framework

Jeff Saunderson, presenting for the Division of Assessment and Accountability, asked the committee to approve revised science essential elements for students participating in Maryland's alternate assessment (Dynamic Learning Maps). He said the work was multi-state, involved external experts and reviewed 84 essential elements designed to align alternate academic achievement standards with college- and career-readiness.

Saunderson summarized the process: multi-state collaboration (led by the University of Kansas' Dynamic Learning Maps consortium), stakeholder review and planned field testing ahead of operational assessment use. He said the revised essential elements will be organized by grade span (3-5, 6-8, 9-12) with high school focused on life sciences to align with mandated state assessments.

Committee members emphasized the small size of the population served by alternate assessments. A board member noted the federal expectation that alternate assessments are reserved for roughly 1-2% of students with the most significant cognitive disabilities; Saunderson and the MSDE team reiterated that the revised elements are intended to promote access to the general curriculum and not to drive segregation from peers.

Dr. Goolson moved to accept the framework; a second was recorded. The committee voted and the motion carried.

What happens next: MSDE will field-test items aligned to the revised essential elements and develop the operational alternate science assessment for implementation in a future school year after field tests conclude.