For a week or two students have been filing out of classes and into computer labs to take MAP tests.

What are these NWEA: MAP tests  and why are Cotter students taking them?

The Northwest Evaluation Association has been distributing its Measures of Academic Progress Tests for just over 40 years now.  The tests are taken twice a year  by students at participating high schools around the nation.

The tests consists of three main categories: math, reading, and science.  Students from 2nd-12th may take this test.

Public schools around the nation do not have to pay for this test, but private schools do.

Principal Dave Forney had this to say about the test, “It measures the growth of the student.  It really digs in to see any holes in our curriculum.”

These tests are different from the tests that Cotter used to take years ago.  These tests do not have the same questions for every student, rather, the questions are asked in accordance with the answers of the students.

“This test actually takes you where you currently are.  Different questions are asked based on the student’s ability,” Forney said.

Unfortunately, there was a minor setback with this year’s testing.  A Denial of Service Attack, or stage RED, was issued by the test center last week.  Forney explained that all the email said was that they recommend that our testing should be delayed until further notice.

Testing resumed and was completed this week.  The school will receive the results.  Students will get their scores and academic departments and counselors can meet to see what are the strengths and weaknesses in the curriculum.

Students will take a second round in the spring.