Seniors to take national test Feb. 3

Brailey McMinn, Staff Reporter
January 26, 2015

Ninety seniors have been selected to participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), which is part of the survey for the “nation’s report card,” Feb. 3.

The NAEP is the nation’s largest represented assessment of what American students know and what they can do in various subject areas. The tests stay the same throughout each year, with minimal document changes to see how students academically progress over time. Counselor Chris Fant said the activity will take about 90 minutes with the actual testing session lasting an hour.

“Students will be testing in math, science, or reading,” Fant said. “The scores will not affect students’ grades, but the data will be useful only if the students put in effort.”

By taking the test, students help measure the educational progress of the state and nation. Fant said unlike STAAR, a state exam, this assessment is national and students all over the United States will be participating.

“Each student selected represents hundreds of students just like them across the United States,” Fant said. “NAEP is the only assessment which allows states to compare educational progress with each other or with the nation as a whole.”

Also, Fant said Canyon High was chosen as a part of sampling to represent other schools with similar demographics.

“Students can use the Question Tool on the NAEP website to see what questions will be like,” Fant said. “However, there is no preparation necessary, just a willingness to come and do their best on the exam.”