Mandated Test Procedure Questioned

A presentation by representatives from the Northwest Evaluation Association regarding a state-mandated testing procedure sparked debate at a recent South Huntingon School Board meeting.

Aligned with state core standards, the NWEA online method will be used to evaluate students based on computer-based adaptive assessments which adjust in difficulty during the testing procedure based on the individula answers of students.

In South Huntington, grades one though five will begin using the test method this year with full implementation expected for kindergarten through high school students by the 2013-14 school year. A gradual phasing in period is planned over the next three years. 

Three tests per school year will be given in reading, math and language with a focus on growth to indicate the instructional level at which a student is performing, according to the NWEA.

According to the NWEA, the new procedure would allow teachers to "see their students as individuals." As a student responds to questions, the test responds to students, adjusting up or down in difficulty.

South Huntington BOE members debated NWEA method Sept. 21 at a meeting at Silas Wood Sixth Grade Center in Huntington Station.

"This is going to create the intensive focus," said School Superintendent Thomas Shea. He said focus was lost after the state "locked down" test information and did not share with schools what answers students got wrong.

"What do I use as the benchmark?" asked School Board President Jim Kaden. He suggested South Huntington should measure themselves against themselves, not other school districts like Northport or Huntington.

BOE member Nicholas Ciappetta said for several years the school the school board has seen how they need to get better at analyzing data and reviewing test answers of students but it has not yet produced improvement.

Shea said he will bring results from a research project based on an NWEA testing period conducted last year in South Huntington to the next school board meeting for review.

South Huntington teachers have not been fully trained in the method to date, according to the school board.

Nassau County petioned the New York State Education Department to use NWEA in lieu of NYSED assessments. 

NWEA is a non-profit Oregon-based company founded in 1977.