Assessments
Testing at Cedar Park
Please click the following resource below to find schedules and important information about all testing at Cedar Park Elementary STEM School.
District 196's Assessment Calendar
Cedar Park's 24-25 Testing Schedule
State Required Testing Schedule for Schools
Measuring success in District 196
The District 196 Research, Assessment & Analytics department is responsible for all district wide achievement testing. The assessment center staff work on implementation of state graduation standards; administer district, state and national tests; collect other information to support revision and development of curricular and instructional programs; and report data to the School Board, the Curriculum and Instruction Advisory Council (CIAC), and the public.
Our mission is to collect meaningful information, report it in a timely way, and communicate the results in a clear and helpful style. The District 196 Assessment Plan articulates a balanced system of assessment that:
- Aligns with Minnesota and district standards
- Supports our district mission
- Provides assessment information that is compatible with information from previous grades
- Provides data to be used by Professional Learning Communities for strengthening instructional approaches
- Utilizes an array of assessment methods which provide multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate understanding and knowledge
Assessments are an integral part of instruction, as it determines whether or not the goals of education are being met. Assessment affects decisions about grades, placement, advancement, instructional needs, curriculum, and, in some cases, funding. Assessments inspire us to ask these hard questions: "Are we teaching what we think we are teaching?" "Are students learning what they are supposed to be learning?" "Is there a way to teach the subject better, thereby promoting better learning?"
Tips for Successful Test Taking:
1. Get a good night sleep the night before the test. Going to bed even 30 minutes earlier than usual will positively effect your performance. And make sure you wake up on time, too! Arriving to school late will only add stress, and could have a negative impact on your test score.
2. Eat a good breakfast the morning of the test, even if you're test isn't until the afternoon. Avoid sugary breakfast foods, but instead eat foods with protein like eggs or yogurt and granola. Protein helps us concentrate and stay awake for the whole test!
3. Wear comfortable clothing.
4. Expect some stress, but know how to handle it. Taking 5-10 slow, deep breaths can help reduce stress and refocus your attention.
5. Think positively. Tell yourself, "I've got this! I will do well on this test!" Having a positive attitude helps you succeed.