New Science Educator Network
I'm excited to announce that a new collaborative group is forming for science teachers! This network will serve the Southwest Michigan Region's science educators. If you're interested, please fill out this Google Form. Feel free to pass this along to your science colleagues too!
Test Fest
The assessment section below is packed with goodies this month. Scroll down for the latest on
- NWEA data in DnA
- Preparing for the spring P/SAT testing cycle
- More information on Number Line questions in DnA
Locked Browser Issue
Due to a recent Chromebook OS update, DnA users may experience loading issues with the locked browser application. DnA is working on a fix with Google, but no timeline is available. In the meantime, consider these alternatives in a "locked tab":
- Use quick codes
- Use Google Classroom links
- Use the Online Student Portal (some initial set up may be necessary).
There are so many great educators doing great things in DnA, I wanted to share the love with you all! Check out the section below highlighting the work of a middle school teacher at Delton-Kellogg Schools. Keep an eye out for more awesome teachers in upcoming newsletters!
Heartfelt Wishes
Wishing the best to my colleague Beckie Reed as she embarks on a new position. As my counterpart working with Skyward, I have appreciated the collaboration and friendship. Thank you and best wishes!
Kim
#BetterTogether
Kudos to Delton-Kellogg Middle School teacher Heidi Tyner!
She has been a trailblazer in preparing her 8th grade students for the digital PSAT after taking the Digital Assessments Made Easy course. Every Friday Ms. Tyner's students engage in practice, starting with a test-taking strategy from PIRATES (University of Kansas), then moving on to digital testing with short PSAT practice tests in DnA's Item Bank.
More About Heidi's Process:
- Create tests in the Item Bank specific to her course standards
- Typical questions include multiple choice, evidence-based selected response, and constructed response
- Students test in the Online Portal and go over answers when finished (instant feedback!)
- Tests are timed to mimic the PSAT experience
- Report analysis provides insight on student gaps in knowledge for re-teaching
Keep up the good work Heidi!
🔥Item Bank: Number Lines Tutorial
In December, a brand new style of question was introduced to the Item Bank: Number Lines. Students plot their answers on a number line using a set of tools such as dots, line segments, or vectors. Watch this video tutorial for details on creating this question type. If you want to know more about the different types of questions available, check out this help guide too!
NWEA Data in DnA!
Winter NWEA testing data is available in DnA with the most recent update on February 26th. You can access this information in a variety of reports and assessments within DnA. You can also view a single student's percentile score in the student profile. Use these options to find what you seek:
P/SAT Prep
The countdown to Test Fest has begun! Districts should be making preparations for the upcoming College Board assessments. If you are a proctor, watch your email inbox for the required tutorial Test Day Tool Kit (if you proctored last year, you'll just have a refresher). A reminder to use your existing College Board accounts (update your school as necessary). Share this flyer with your School Test Coordinator for some great reminders, tips, and important dates: Spring Testing Reminders 2025
🔥Game Changer:
Prepare your students for test fest by giving them digital practice quizzes in DnA's Item Bank!
