The Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) test assesses grades 4 and 7 in Social Studies and grades 5 and 8 in Science. These tests replace the former state assessments, Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP). The CMAS test aligns with the revised Colorado Academic Standards, which are now in place for all grade levels. The new science standards were first implemented at the elementary level in 2013-2014 school year, and the new social studies standards were first implemented at the elementary level during the 2014-2015 year. The new science and social studies standards were first implemented at the middle level during the 2013-2014 school year.
Overall, LPS students continue to outscore the state by double digits in all grades and content areas tested. LPS students with disabilities and students in poverty out-performed the state in all grades and content areas tested, as well.
In social studies, LPS 4th graders scored 15 percentage points higher “Strong and Distinguished” than the state average; LPS 7th graders scored 10 percentage points higher “Strong and Distinguished” than the state average. LPS students from the following schools scored twice the state average or higher in social studies: Franklin, Highland, Lenski, Runyon, Sandburg, and Wilder elementary schools; and Powell Middle School and Littleton Academy Charter School middle school. Grade 4 social studies scores were 7 percentage points higher this year in the “Strong and Distinguished” category than last year. Grade 7 social studies scores were 4 percentage points lower this year in the “Strong and Distinguished” category than last year.
In science, LPS 5th graders scored 20 percentage points higher “Strong and Distinguished” than the state average; LPS 8th graders scored 19 percentage points higher “Strong and Distinguished” than the state average.
LPS students from the following schools scored twice the state average or higher in science: Franklin and Lenski elementary schools and Littleton Academy Charter School middle school. Grade 5 and grade 8 science scores were down 1 percent in the “Strong and Distinguished” category from last year.
“The new standards and the next generation of assessments pose challenges to all school districts, and we are very proud of our students and our teachers for the outstanding work they continue to do. ” said Connie Bouwman, LPS deputy superintendent. “Their continued commitment to excellence is second to none.”
One of those challenges facing districts is participation. Overall, LPS student participation in CMAS testing was 90 percent or more in all grades and subjects tested. At the elementary level, LPS experienced 97 percent participation. The federal mandate of participation is 95 percent. “Participation in state assessment tests in important, and we continue to encourage families to have their students participate,” said Bouwman.
“These scores are impressive by any measure,” said LPS Superintendent Brian Ewert. “It takes the commitment of students, teachers, parents, and the larger community to help students achieve their individual best. This data also shows us when students need additional help, and when we have gaps in programs and services to meet student needs.”
Colorado’s state assessments changed two years ago in order to accurately assess student mastery of the updated Colorado Academic Standards. There are still decisions to be made at the state level regarding the future of Colorado’s large scale assessments. In the meantime, districts remain in a holding pattern.