New Jersey schools launch Start Strong assessments to support student learning

Teachers in New Milford are actively engaged in assessing students as the school year begins, focusing on individual and small group evaluations to tailor educational approaches. This year, all students have access to district-issued Chromebooks, enhancing learning opportunities and utilizing valuable resources developed during the pandemic.

The New Jersey Department of Education has introduced the Start Strong assessment, which will replace the traditional spring assessments for the 2020-2021 school year. This new assessment is designed to be brief, taking approximately 45 to 60 minutes, and aims to provide immediate feedback to educators. It will assess students on prior year standards, allowing teachers to quickly identify and address individual learning needs.

Parents will receive Individual Score Reports (ISRs) after the assessments, detailing their child's performance and providing a foundation for discussions with teachers about future learning strategies. The assessments will categorize student performance into three levels, helping educators and families determine the necessary support for each student.

Looking ahead, the New Milford Board of Education is preparing for the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA) scheduled for spring 2022, which will assess students in grades 3 through 9 in English Language Arts and Mathematics, and grades 5 to 11 in Science.

Additionally, updates on high school graduation requirements were discussed, outlining pathways for students in the class of 2022 and beyond. Students can demonstrate proficiency through state assessments, approved substitute competency tests, or by submitting a portfolio appeal if they do not meet the required standards.

These initiatives reflect the district's commitment to enhancing educational outcomes and ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed as they navigate the challenges of the current academic landscape.