MCA – Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment – required by the state of Minnesota to hold schools accountable. The state is required by the federal government to assess students in math and reading in grades 3-8, plus reading in 10th grade and math in 11th grade. Assessments are held once per year in the spring. The data collected is used by teachers and district leaders to help guide instruction and better support students. For more information, please visit the link that is hyperlinked above.

CCS offers the Late Spring ACT assessment for 11th and 12th graders who wish to participate. Participation is optional as these scores are used for college entrance requirements. For more information on ACTs, please visit their website linked here.

Fastbridge is a quick and easy way to check how students in Kindergarten through 3rd grade are doing with their reading and math skills. Think of it like a quick health checkup, but for school subjects! It helps teachers see who is doing well and who might need a little extra help. The test is taken three times a year, and the results help teachers plan lessons so that every student can become a strong learner. This screening is part of a new Minnesota law called the Minnesota READ Act.

Star is a computer-based test that gives teachers a full picture of a student’s reading and math abilities. The test adjusts to each student, making it a good fit for all learners. The results help teachers see what each student already knows and what they’re ready to learn next. Star screening helps make sure that all students are on track with Minnesota’s learning standards. It’s like a report card that helps teachers give each student exactly what they need to succeed!

Capti ReadBasix is a special screening for students in 4th through 12th grade who are struggling with reading. It is based on a method called the “Science of Reading” to find the specific skills a student needs help with. This test looks at things like decoding words, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. The results help teachers give students targeted support so they can build a strong foundation and become more confident readers.