QACPS Tests and Assessments (Federal, State, & Local)

Local (September/January/June)

i-Ready is an online diagnostic that helps teachers provide all students a path to proficiency and growth in reading and mathematics.  i-Ready is given three times a year (beginning, middle and end of year) to students in grades K-8. 

Federal/State (September)

The KRA is a kindergarten readiness tool that allows teachers to measure each child’s school readiness across multiple domains (Social Foundations, Language and Literacy, Mathematics, and Physical Well-Being and Motor Development).

Local (October)

CogAT is an abilities test given in grades 3 and 5 containing 3 batteries (verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal) to support academic placements for students.

A preliminary, or practice, version of the SAT assessment, which includes opportunities for National Merit Scholarships. Mainly given during the sophomore year, with additional juniors for the Qualifying Test (NMSQT).

A College Board test, mostly taken during 11th grade, intended to measure literacy, mathematics, and writing skills as measured for college entrance and success.

Tests taken by students, in May, enrolled in AP courses, with opportunity to earn high school and college credits. 

The ASVAB is a multiple battery measuring the abilities to support academic and occupational successes in the military. 

Federal/State (Winter)

WIDA is an assessment for English Language students to measure listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.  

Federal/State (Spring)

Students with significant cognitive disabilities in grades 3-8, and 11 take these alternate assessments to MCAP decided by the IEP team.  Grades 3-8, and 11 participate in Math and English Language Arts, while Science is only given to students in Grades 5, 8, and 11.

Federal/State (Fall and Spring)

The Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) provides information to educators, parents and the public on student progress towards proficiency on the Maryland College and Career Ready Standards. Through a strong assessment system, stakeholders gain an understanding of how schools are performing and where assistance can be directed to support student growth and achievement.

The federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires that states administer the following annual statewide assessments:

• English Language Arts/Literacy – Grades 3-8 and 10
• Math – Grades 3-8, Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry 
• Science – Grades 5, 8 and HS students enrolled in Biology course
  

Maryland law requires the following annual statewide assessments:

• Social Studies/Government – Grade 8 and HS students enrolled in US Government

A National Assessment meant to measure educational achievement and progress throughout the nation, also known as The Nation’s Report Card.  Only select counties and schools are chosen, by the state, to participate in the assessment each school year.