The Smart Step initiative provides additional resources and professional development to middle level educators. Smart Step provides a focus for school improvement. A sample implementation guide can be found on the Smart Step web site. All released items are listed in the Benchmark Exam Teacher Handbooks. The fourth grade released items can be used with sixth and seventh grade students.
Teachers can also modify the items.
Proficient is scoring at grade level. Smart Step encourages schools to develop local programs and practices based on current research and best practices. It is recommended that the faculty remain as one coordinated unit. The content of the professional development will target the needs of the middle level educator and student.