Has your school recently experienced a change in state assessments? You’re not alone! Many schools are navigating the challenges of new testing formats, and this can create a hurdle when applying for Model PLC status, which requires three consecutive years of student achievement data.
Don’t let this change discourage you! There may be other options to consider. Here are some suggestions for how to still submit a strong application.
1. Provide student achievement data from other assessments:
- Assessment data does not have to be from State assessments. We will require three consecutive years of student achievement data; however, you can submit data from any of the following:
- Local Assessment
- Common Formative Assessments
- Benchmark assessments
- Standardized assessments
2. Document the change clearly:
- There will be a text box section on the Student Achievement Tab of the application where you enter your student assessment scores. Use this area to explain the assessment change and the timeframe clearly.
- Tell the committee that your state assessments have changed. Explain the assessment data you are submitting and why you feel it represents the growth happening with your students.
3. Attach additional supplemental data
- You can attach your own data (graphs, charts, tables, etc.) that show increases in student learning in addition to the data entered into the Student Achievement Tab. Examples here.
- Tip: Be sure to include numerical scores on charts and graphs.
4. Use your PLC Practices narratives to explain how you are moving forward
- Explain how you have responded and have adjusted your collaborative work to accommodate the new assessment.
- Focus on learning (not just testing). Highlight how you are using formative assessments and other data sources to monitor student progress beyond the state test.
- Show how you are using data to drive instructional improvements and close achievement gaps. Share examples of how your teams have responded to student needs.
Key Takeaway:
A change in state assessments doesn’t automatically disqualify you from applying for Model PLC at Work status. By clearly documenting the change, submitting the data you do have, focusing on other evidence of increases in student learning, and providing context, you can still showcase the power of your PLC at Work.
If you simply don’t have three years of data that shows an upward trajectory in student learning, please consider applying for Promising Practices. This tier is for schools that are building their foundation in the PLC at Work process and have one year of data showing increases in student achievement. To learn more, click here.
Remember, the goal of a PLC at Work is to increase student learning, regardless of the specific assessment used. Share how you have created a culture where all means all, centered around collaboration, ensuring your students succeed is at the heart of it all, and you’ll be well on your way to a powerful application.
Key Resources:
Want to see what this would look like in the application? Download this quick What This Looks Like IN The Application Document for screenshots and tips.If you are still stumped, contact us! We are here to help. Send an email to [email protected]. Explain your situation to us, and we’ll see how we can help!
