Teachers use a constant influx of assessment results to drive instruction, but is that data sabotaging teaching? Using data to drive instruction is critical for ensuring that students receive the highest quality learning experiences that meet their needs. There are a few ways that data may be hindering student and teacher performance.

As many colleges across the U.S. opt to not use the SAT and ACT in the admissions process, over 20 states—including Nevada, Indiana, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, and more—are now making the SAT or ACT a mandatory summative assessment for high school graduation. With all of these new changes, many students and teachers are wondering how best to prepare for these all-important exams. Lucky for you, the team at Progress Learning has been working hard behind the scenes these past few months, finding ways to make SAT and ACT test prep even more accessible to every single student across the country.

In recognition of Dyslexia Awareness Month this October, here is an overview of the condition, its challenges, and how Progress Learning can help teachers, parents, and students access the accommodations needed to achieve academic success.

An overview of the California Department of Education’s systems to create more equity in the way education is funded in an effort to develop a system of funding that is simpler and fairer for students.

How do we empower students to take an active role in their education? Students need to feel that they are a part of cultivating their own learning experiences. As educators, we must effectively guide our students to understanding their instructional data and work with them to set achievable goals that put them on the right path towards academic success. 

In September of 2021, Governor DeSantis announced a proposal that would end the FSA and replace it with the new Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) which aims to eradicate common core and move to a growth based, progress monitoring system. The goal behind FAST is to remove common core end of year standardized assessments and implement a progress monitoring system that facilitates individual growth and supports students in reaching their academic goals. In March of 2022, Desantis signed bill, SB 1048, to implement the new required FAST system in the 2022-23 school year.

It is our responsibility to ensure that all students receive quality instruction. It is the expectation that students with disabilities will receive the same quality of instruction and participate in the general education classroom as well as district and state level testing to the greatest extent possible in accordance with both the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Students with disabilities contend with barriers to learning and challenges which make it difficult for them to access materials and show what they know. 

One of the biggest challenges schools and districts are facing this year is the massive teacher shortages. Finding and keeping quality educators post-pandemic has proved to be very difficult for a number of reasons. While this is a pressing issue, progress is being made. Incentives for teachers are being offered in districts nationwide, and new teachers are being hired rapidly. We must take a hard look at the key areas of need in order to determine lasting solutions.

As educators, it is critical that our students are learning in a safe, effective, and equitable environment. Our classrooms have a wide variety of learner profiles and meeting the needs of each and every student is our top priority. From ESL/ELL students to students with learning disabilities, IEPs and 504s, we must work to ensure accessibility for all students to engage them in appropriate learning experiences that meet their individual and unique needs.