Every test, no matter who develops it, has a certain potential for error. Because of this, the Department of Public Instruction incorporates a range of scores that are considered grade level scores for each student. This range is similar to the way that results of public opinion polls are reported. Fifth grade students whose scores do not fall into this spectrum, have the opportunity for a re-test to ensure that they did not just experience a bad testing day. If the student s parent requests their child skip the re-test, then the student will immediately begin focused intervention.
Teachers know the strengths and weaknesses of their students.
Even if a student does not reach grade level during the second re-testing opportunity, that does not mean that he or she is automatically retained. The review, which is held before a panel of practicing educators who are not from the student s school, allows the student s teachers and parents to present documentation of the student s learning and skill level. Documentation could include other test results and samples of the student s school work in addition to other materials. Parents have the right to attend the review session and present information on their child s behalf but they are not voting members of the review panel. The review panel then considers the information provided and makes a recommendation to the student s principal as to whether that child should be promoted or retained.