Meanwhile, the state is putting into place a series of standardized tests and performance assessments that will generate the first comparable data on schools in its history. The new Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments, mandated in 1997 and given to 3rd and 5th graders for the first time last year, are intended to gauge whether students are on track to meet the graduation standards. Starting in the 8th grade, students also must pass basic-skills tests in reading and mathematics to graduate. In addition, Minnesota high school students entering 9th grade last fall must compile a record on the state's controversial Profile of Learning to get a diploma. The Profile of Learning aims to assess whether students can apply their knowledge across 10 broad learning areas.
Teachers can either use packages prepared by the state or create their own.
Classroom teachers evaluate students' work, which might include writing a newspaper article about two scientific discoveries of the past or designing, conducting, and reporting on a field study of a local ecosystem. Although some educators had argued that they needed more time, all districts are offering performance packages in all subjects this school year rather than seeking waivers to phase them in. So far, the Profile of Learning has enjoyed strong legislative support. In an effort to ensure that the state's students can meet the new graduation requirements, new standards for elementary schools took effect last fall. High school students also will have to take tests in core subjects, but they won't have to pass them to graduate.