The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) is a statewide assessment administered in the spring to grades 3 – 8 in reading, math and science (grades 5 & 8 only). Statewide assessments are one measure of how well students are doing in school.  Lake Harriet teachers also use universal screeners, pre-tests, classwork and unit tests to help monitor the academic progress of our students.  

Last week, the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) submitted our state’s Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) plan to the U.S. Department of Education for review and approval. If approved, the plan will mean significant changes for districts across Minnesota, including MPS.  One change will impact the option to opt out of state testing.  Parents and guardians have the right to not have their student participate in MCAs.  However, this year students who opt out of MCAs will now be considered not proficient.  For additional information and to review the full plan, visit http://education.state.mn.us/MDE/dse/ESSA/mnstp/ or learn more about http://education.state.mn.us/MDE/fam/tests/

If you decide to have your student opt out of any of our district or state testing, please fill out the 2017-2018 Parent Refusal Form and return the school office.

Ashley Gillingham

(Assistant Principal)