Now that we are in the final quarter of the year, it is time to start preparing for the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs). The information below will tell you what the MCAs are, when and who we are testing, and what students need to know and prepare for. Please read carefully.
What are the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs)?
The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs) are state tests in mathematics, reading and science. They are given every year, with the exception of last year, to measure student performance against the Minnesota Academic Standards that specify what students in each grade should know and be able to do. We use the information to improve classroom teaching and learning.
When are the MCA tests given?
Every spring, all students in grades 10 and 11 take the MCAs to make sure learning is on track. All three assessments will be taken on a computer. Students will find their lab or classroom assignments on their SpudsLanding page. Our testing schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, April 21st - Morning 8:25-11:04 (Blocks 1&2)
9th Grade - BARR Activities
10th Grade - Reading MCA's in classrooms
11th Grade - Math MCA's in classrooms
12th Grade - Asynchronous day off campus
***Afternoon 11:09-2:25 (Block 3 & 4) - Classes resume a normal afternoon schedule
Wednesday, April 28th - ALL Day
Biology Students - Science MCA's in lab spaces
What do students need to bring or know before testing?
Do NOT bring: cell phones, wearable devices, or photographic equipment to the test.
You SHOULD bring: scratch paper, pencil, approved Calculators for MCA math only, wired in headphones for MCA Math and Science (Bluetooth headphones are not allowed).
How can students prepare for the MCAs?
Become familiar with the format of the test.
Format and item samples can be accessed by a link in Spuds Landing on the Links page OR,
Go to PearsonAccessNext website and select Item Samplers http://minnesota.pearsonaccessnext.com/
Students function best after a good night’s sleep and a good breakfast.
Encourage students to answer all test questions.
Check out Pearson Perspective for even more resources: https://mn.pearsonperspective.com/perspective/homeLinkTracker
How can I see the OFFICIAL MCA results for my student?
Moorhead Area Public Schools will receive an individual report for each student from the Minnesota Department of Education. Your student’s school will send that to you and a copy is uploaded into your student's Powerschool documents. You can expect the official results next fall.
What do the scores mean?
“D” means the student did not meet the grade-level standards (Scores range from 0-39)
“P” means the student partially met the grade-level standards (Scores range from 40-49)
“M” means the student met the grade-level standards (Target score is 50)
“E” means the student exceeded the grade-level standards (Scores vary by grade and subject)
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the MCA’s please contact your students’ principal or Dr. Amanda Henry at 218-443-5929 or ahenry@moorheadschools.org