|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 18, 2024
The Alaska State Board of Education Approves Updated Assessment Measures
JUNEAU, AK – The Alaska State Board of Education and Early Development (Board) held a virtual meeting on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 and adopted two proposed regulation changes to the Alaska assessments model: the adoption of updated regulations for administering assessments to students with disabilities and the adoption of new cut scores for the Alaska System of Academic Readiness (AK STAR).
The adoption of new cut scores for AK STAR have delayed results this year, and the decision to delay the release of scores is driven by the ongoing transition and commitment to developing a more effective assessment approach. The incorporation of new elements - such as MAP Growth performance data, coupled with a linking study that highlighted a significant variance between grade-level percentiles - provided insights into proficiency levels. This information, along with a Policy Review Committee’s consideration, led to a recommendation to adjust the current AK STAR cut scores.
The results are a necessary component in making data-informed decisions:
- For our students and families, assessment results help to determine strengths and challenges, and how to utilize both to continue growing.
- For our teachers and school administrators, assessment results help districts to evaluate progress, find areas for improvement, and focus on what our students need most.
- For our policymakers and researchers, assessment results ensure resources are allocated to the most vital areas of need.
In the video linked below, Commissioner of Education and Early Development, Dr. Deena Bishop, compares the educational experience to an orchestra.
"Assessment is a key part of student success. If comprehensive and well-rounded student success is an orchestra, assessment is the percussion, setting the pace and emphasizing important milestones," said Commissioner Bishop.
Since 2021, DEED has been committed to developing a new assessment approach that is holistic, growth-oriented, adaptive, and efficient. The adoption of new cut scores for AK STAR is a huge step forward in transforming Alaska's assessment model.
More information about AK STAR results can be found online: AK STAR Assessments Results.
The Board’s next scheduled meeting is February 27-28, 2024 in Juneau, Alaska.
 Watch the full video here: Commissioner Bishop on New AK STAR Cut Scores
###
The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development provides information, resources, and leadership to support over 130,000 students in 505 public schools across the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to ensure an “Excellent Education for Every Student Every Day.”
Media Contact: Caroline Hamp, Public Information Officer, (907) 465-6694
|
