Testing in Arizona: An Overview
AZ LEARNS Achievement Profiles
Arizona uses AZ LEARNS Achievement Profiles to provide an indication of overall student performance at each school. The profiles for elementary and middle schools are based on: the percent of students passing the AIMS test, the improvement or decline of AIMS scores over three years, the percent of students in each grade making year-to-year academic progress (indicated through the Measure of Academic Progress results, or the MAP), and whether or not the school made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). High school profiles are based on AIMS, AYP status and graduation/dropout rates. Using these indicators, the state rates schools as Excelling, Highly Performing, Performing Plus, Performing, Underperforming, Failing to Meet Academic Standards or Pending.
Why do AZ LEARNS profiles matter?
A designation of Underperforming or Failing suggests that the overall student population at the school is not meeting the state's expectations. Schools designated as Underperforming face state mandated consequences; they must, among other things, notify the public of their designation, and develop and implement a school improvement plan.
What if my child attends an underperforming or failing school?
If your child attends an underperforming or failing school, ask what steps the school is taking to raise achievement levels for all students and what you can do to help. Because underperforming schools are likely to face consequences under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, your child may be eligible to receive federal and/or state money for tutoring or to transfer to another school.
Why do some schools not have AZ LEARNS profiles?
If a school has a small number of students with valid AIMS scores, the state does not calculate a profile for that school. If your school's profile is not listed on GreatSchools, contact your principal to find out more.
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