Assessment Information: FastBridge & MCA Testing
FastBridge Screening (Local Assessment)
Overview:
FastBridge is a research-based universal screening tool used by our school district to assess students' academic skills in reading and math (and sometimes social-emotional learning). These brief assessments are given to all students three times a year — in fall, winter, and spring — to monitor progress and guide instruction.
Purpose & Use of Results:
- Identify students who may need additional support or enrichment.
- Guide classroom instruction and inform targeted interventions.
- Monitor growth throughout the school year.
- Support data-driven decisions at the classroom, school, and district levels.
When:
Scheduled three times a year — exact dates are available on the School Assessment Calendar.
Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) – Statewide Testing
Overview:
The MCA tests are state-required assessments that measure student progress toward Minnesota’s academic standards in reading, math, and science. These are administered in the spring.
Purpose & Use of Results:
- Evaluate how well schools and districts are helping students meet grade-level standards.
- Help guide curriculum and instruction at the state and local levels.
- Serve as one measure of school and district performance for state and federal accountability.
- Provide parents and educators with information about student academic achievement and growth.
Who Takes It:
- Reading: Grades 3–8, 10
- Math: Grades 3–8, 11
- Science: Grades 5, 8, and once in high school (usually after a biology course)
When:
Typically administered from April through May — exact testing windows are listed in the School Assessment Calendar.
How Assessment Results Are Used
- Teachers use assessment data to tailor instruction, group students for support or enrichment, and monitor progress.
- School and district leaders use the data to evaluate programs, allocate resources, and make improvements.
- Parents/Guardians receive individual reports that show how their child is performing compared to grade-level expectations and peers.
- State and federal agencies use MCA results to ensure schools are meeting performance goals and to determine support under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).