Watching Young Artists Grow
Each Spring, students across Kansas, including those in USD 428, participate in the Kansas Assessment Program. These assessments provide valuable insight into student learning and help guide instruction to ensure academic growth. While these tests are just one measure of progress, we encourage all students to approach them with confidence and put forth their best effort.
Assessments will take place between March 24 - April 24, 2025. Your child’s attendance center will communicate the specific testing dates scheduled in their building and the grade levels included.
The Kansas Assessment Program measures student knowledge and skills in core subject areas, including English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics, and Science (for designated grade levels). These results help teachers and administrators make informed decisions about curriculum and instruction to best support student learning.
Your encouragement plays a key role in student success! Here are a few simple ways to support your child during assessment season:
Encourage a Positive Attitude – Remind your child that these assessments are an opportunity to show what they know. Encouraging words can make a big difference!
Ensure Rest and Nutrition – A good night’s sleep and a healthy breakfast can help students stay focused and engaged.
Be Mindful of Scheduling – Try to avoid scheduling appointments or absences on testing days to allow students to participate without added stress.
Q: What are the state assessments?
A: State assessments encompass a range of tests aligned with statewide curriculum standards. Designed to aid educators and policymakers in evaluating student learning, these assessments also fulfill federal and state accountability mandates. The Kansas Assessment Program categorizes student scores into four benchmark levels.
Q: Who takes the state assessments and what subjects do they include?
A: Students in…
Grades 3-8, and 10 - English Language Arts (ELA) & Mathematics
Grades 5, 8, 11 - Science
Q: What are the test results used for?
A: State assessments are a snapshot of our students' progress from year to year. We use results as a school district to track our overall progress as a system. Buildings use them to see how they are doing as a school. Individual students/families, teachers, and principals use the data to track how students are progressing on the path to being ready for graduation, postsecondary schools, and careers. At USD 428, we use state assessment scores to help place students in the appropriate interventions and/or enrichment opportunities. It is important that students take the tests seriously to provide an accurate picture of how they are progressing in the school system.
Q: What are other measures to track my student's academic progress?
A: As part of USD 428’s Multi-Tier System of Support, students participate in regular progress monitoring and benchmarking throughout the year. This data is typically reviewed with parents/guardians during conferences and provides a roadmap for individual student growth. The progress monitoring and interim assessments inform the structured support and intervention provided to students in small groups.
Q: How long do the assessments take?
A: Each test is divided into sections and is designed to be completed over multiple days to minimize fatigue.
Q: Where do I see my student(s) Kansas Assessment Program results?
A: KAP scores will be available for families to review on the Kite Parent Portal. When results are available, we will send instructions for accessing the Parent Portal. Due to changes in this year’s test, KAP scores will be available after standard setting and State Board of Education approval, which is anticipated to occur in Fall 2025.