A Resource for Parents on Using Student Testing Data
March 11, 2021
EdNavigator, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing student access to opportunities from preschool through college and beyond, recently published a comprehensive and compelling discussion on student assessments specifically geared for parents. The piece, titled What Parents Need to Know About Tests, explores misconceptions about the use of student assessment data, mapping how tests can truly provide useful data to parents, teachers, and school leaders needed to make sound instructional and strategic investment decisions that drive gains in student achievement. On the other hand, the folks at EdNavigator are clear that “test scores are not destiny,” and, instead, present opportunities for parents and teachers to hone in on areas where a student may need extra instruction, supporters, or intervention. The piece concludes by providing parents four recommendations: review your child’s test results, consider what the scores indicate about your child’s trajectory, pay special attention to math, and become familiar with the “percentiles” ranked on your child’s test report.