ISAT Testing

Emmett Middle School will be conducting ISAT testing on the following dates:

• April 23- English Language Arts (6th-8th grades)
• Part 1- Performance Task in the AM
• Part 2- Computer-Adaptive Test in the PM
• ELA make up test April 24-26
• April 30th- Science ISATs (8th grade only)
• Students will take test in the AM.
• Science make up test May 1-3
• May 7th - Math ISATS (6th-8th)
• Part 1- Performance Task in the AM
• Part 2- Computer-Adaptive Test in the PM
• Math make up test May 8-10

Both April 23rd and May 7th will have an altered bell schedule in order to accommodate the 2 part test. Students will be taking part of academic activities both days but will not be introduced to new material.

The PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports) team has been diligently planning ways to recognize and reward students who have demonstrated improvement from the spring 2023 test to the spring 2024 test. Here's what they have in store:

• Students who exhibit growth on the ELA and Math ISATs will be excused from their end-of-year final exams.
• For every 10-point increase in scores on the ELA and Math ISATs, students will receive a ticket that can be redeemed for various prizes, including Dutch Bros and Fiz gift cards, as well as the opportunity to throw a pie at a teacher.
• Additionally, the team is organizing a growth celebration field day to celebrate students' progress.

If you would like to donate to our celebrations, please reach out to Debbie Dawson at ddawson@isd221.net.

The ISAT assesses all students enrolled in an Idaho public school grades 3-8 and 11. Students are assessed on grade-level content standards in Mathematics, English Language Arts, and Science. The summative ISAT is conducted from March to May each school year. The Math and ELA test consist of two parts: a computer adaptive test and a performance task which are both given on a computer.

ISAT scores are crucial for educators, counselors, and administrators to identify learning gaps and make decisions about students' academic paths. For example, during the 2024-2025 school year, any student who scores a Level 2 or below on the Math and/or English Language Arts ISATs, will be placed in an academic intervention class to help them develop the skills they need to be successful in school.

Test anxiety is a common issue, especially with high-stakes tests like the ISAT. If your student is feeling nervous about the test, they may experience symptoms such as headaches, nausea, sweating, difficulty breathing, and a sense of panic. If you notice your student experiencing these symptoms, there are several strategies you can try to help alleviate their anxiety.

Encourage your student to practice controlled breathing exercises and grounding techniques to help calm their nerves. Additionally, ensure they get enough sleep the night before the test and eat a healthy breakfast to fuel their body and mind.

It's important for each student to find what works best for them in managing their anxiety. Remind them that they are in control of their emotions and that the test does not define their worth as a person. Encourage them to do their best and show what they know!

Your student’s score report for the 2024 Idaho Standards Achievement Test (ISAT) in English Language Arts (ELA)/Literacy, Mathematics and Science provides your family with useful information, including:

• how your student scored on end-of-year, statewide assessments in ELA/Literacy and Mathematics,
• whether these scores meet Idaho’s standards for achievement, and
• how your student’s scores compare with students in their school, their district, and across Idaho.

The scores are broken down into 4 levels.

• Level 4 indicates your student has exceeded achievement standards.
• Level 3 indicates your student has met achievement standards.
• Level 2 indicates your student has nearly met achievement standards.
• Level 1 indicates your student has not met achievement standards

Visit the link below for a detailed guide on "Understanding Your Student's Scores" in Math/ELA and Science.