Types of Assessments
ACCESS
The ACCESS and Alternate ACCESS for English Language Learners (ELLs) are the assessments administered to English learners in order to measure progress toward meeting Minnesota’s standards for English language development. Most English learners will take the ACCESS for ELLs, but English learners who received special education services and meet the participation guidelines may take the Alternate ACCESS for ELLs.
Subject tests will be delivered to K-12 students as scheduled through their English Language Learner teacher. Student tests are scheduled individually. Specific grade and domain schedules by the building will be shared as they become available.
ACT Plus Writing
The ACT measures student academic college and career readiness in the areas of English, math, science, reading and writing. It is given to students in grade 11.
Score reports are sent to students directly from ACT 6-8 weeks after testing.
AP (Advanced Placement Test)
The optional tests are based upon college-level courses taught in the high school. These tests are given over a period of two weeks in May. It is strongly recommended that students take the AP exam given in May. Students must register for these tests by the end of March. Announcements for these tests will be made through the AP courses offered at the high school. Students taking AP exams will be charged a fee set by The College Board. Any questions regarding AP testing should be directed to the building principal or to Pony Center staff.
Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)
The ASVAB is a timed placement test for military service; 10 subtests including math and reading subsections as well as other tests designed to inform test taker of their suitability for a variety of military vocations. The test is offered to students in grades 11 and 12 for a fee, and administered in the spring.
Score reports are sent to the school 14-30 days after testing.
Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA)
The MCAs are mandated by the state of Minnesota. They help schools and districts measure student progress toward the state’s academic standards.
- Grades 10: Reading
- Grades 11: Math
- Science test is given at completion of Life Science course
Preliminary scores available to schools in late May; Final Individual Student Reports are provided to schools to give to families in fall of the following year.
A variation of this state test, called MTAS or Minnesota Test of Academic Skills, is individually administered for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.
PreACT
The PreACT helps assess a student's readiness for the ACT. It simulates the ACT testing experience in all four areas: English, math, reading and science. Reporting includes both academic and career indicators, which are designed to provide both strengths and areas for improvement, providing a complete view of college and career readiness. It is given to students in grade 10 in the fall of each year.
Score reports are sent to the school approximately one month after testing.
PSAT
The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test measures course readiness in reading, writing, and language, and math. It can help determine readiness for the SAT test and is also used to identify National Merit Scholars. The test is offered to students in grades 10 and 11 for a fee.
Score reports are sent to students directly from the College Board 6-8 weeks after testing.