Assessment is the systematic collection of data about student learning based on standards. This data is used to create a continuous cycle of improved teaching and learning. VESD believes assessment provides us with the road map to successful student learning and guidelines to effective, impactful instructional practices. Assessment tell us where a student is in the learning process and helps us meet them there.
District assessments help evaluate student performance and the effectiveness of teaching methods. VESD supports using various assessments—formative, summative, performance-based, portfolios, and observations—to guide instruction, measure learning, and close achievement gaps. These results, combined with district, state, and national data, create a complete picture of student progress. VESD values data that highlights growth opportunities to ensure an exceptional education for all students.
VESD’s approach to assessment includes appropriate periodicity within each content area. Utilizing Rich Dufour's four questions we utilize assessment data to answer each question: