The Echo

Goodbye DSTPs! Hello DCAS!
http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2009904140335

DCAS is expected to be a comprehensive assessment model that will provide immediate feedback which will allow teachers to adjust educational strategies and optimize learning hours! That's great news!

However, I have some questions in light of what we know about DSTPs:
1) How will DCAS compare to national statistics? Let's look at what we already know -- students who score a 3 on DSTPs may be passing in Delaware. But, compared to the national mean, they are scoring just above the lower 30th percentile in the nation.
2) Will DCAS raise the bar? Will our students be required to score at at least the national average in order to be considered passing?
3) Who will bare the burden of accountability? Are we measuring for the final number or the amount of progress any given student makes?
4) What will DCAS mean for special education students? Will the CSD finally implement the modified version for which federal law allows?
5) Will the new Assessment Model lead to the elimination of DAPA or a diploma for our special education students? Or will we continue to be satisfied to graduate students with a Certificate of Performance?

Yes, it's exciting to hear that we are making progress in phasing out a poor testing, assessment, and accountability model. But, we should not loose sight of the goal -- better preparing our students to succeed post high school!

Elizabeth