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Applications Open for Science MCA-IV and Alt MCA Standard Setting

After the first administration for a new series of assessments aligned to revised academic standards, a committee of educators and community members define the performance levels on the new assessment. The Standard Setting Committee will use the Science MCA-IV and Alt MCA Performance Level Descriptors to determine what it means for students to demonstrate proficiency on the Academic Standards in Science.

We are looking for a diverse group of classroom educators representing science education throughout the state. This committee will balance grade-level and content-area knowledge of the 2019 Minnesota Science Standards, geographic distribution and the diversity of our student population. Participants will contribute their instructional expertise and knowledge of the 2019 Science standards and collaborate with peers from across Minnesota while earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and an honorarium.

Please encourage science, special education and multilingual learner educators in your district to apply to be part of one of these in-person committees next summer:

• Application for Science MCA-IV Standard Setting on July 8–10.
• Application for Science Alternate MCA Standard Setting on July 14–15.

Applications will be open until Jan. 10. Committee members will be chosen based on grade-level and content-area needs, as well as experience with the 2019 Minnesota Science Standards.

Another way to be involved in MCA and Alt MCA development is to register to participate in Educator Review Committees. Educator and community member input is vital in the development of questions assessing the Academic Standards in Science. This opportunity is open to science, math, language arts, EL and special education teachers. Please contact mde.testing@state.mn.us for more information.