January 31, 2005

 

Tackling the TAKS

On February 22, WISD Students will begin taking the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, TAKS.  This day marks the beginning of the state-wide assessment for the 2004-2005 school year.  WISD students and teachers have been working hard in preparation for these tests.

Public school students in grades 3 though 11 take the TAKS test every spring.  The test is based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) curriculum that is taught in every public school across the state of Texas.  The test serves as a way to measure what students are learning.  This not only helps teachers and administrators provide the best education for children, but it is also beneficial to parents and guardians so they can help their student reach his/her highest potential academically.

Subject-area tests that will be administered are dependent upon the grade that your student attends.  Though all areas of the TAKS are important, a main emphasis currently lies upon the third, fifth and eleventh grades. Third grade students must pass the third grade TAKS reading test in order to be promoted to the fourth grade, and fifth grade students must pass both the TAKS reading and math tests to be promoted to the sixth grade. Students have three opportunities to pass the tests.  If a student does not pass one or both tests, the student will be given additional instruction after each testing opportunity.  In addition, state law also requires that high school students pass the Grade 11 Exit Level TAKS test in English language arts, math, science, and social studies in order to graduate.  These students will also be given three opportunities to pass.

The Student Success Initiative was created by the Texas Legislature to ensure that all students receive the instruction and support they need to be successful in reading and math. In addition, parents play a vital role in their student's achievement.  At the beginning of the year, parents should meet with their student's teacher(s) and stay in contact with them throughout the year.  Asking about activities that you can do with your student at home can help improve the skills on which he/she will be tested.  Read and discuss a variety of materials with your student and if he/she seems to be struggling, ask about tutoring programs or other forms of available assistance.  On days of testing, be sure your student has gotten a good night's rest, eats a healthy breakfast, and arrives at school on time.  Try not to schedule appointments that would require them to leave the campus on this day and cheer them on to do their best.

As a parent, guardian, friend, and neighbor, it takes everyone working together to help students succeed.  For additional information on the TAKS test, please go to www.tea.state.tx.us.