Galileo: New Benchmark Assessments in Reading and Math This Year

In order to provide more support for all of our students on certain key standardized tests (Stanford 10, AIMS, SAT). City High School has purchased the Galileo Assessment Software from a local educational consulting company, Assessment Technology Incorporated (http://www.ati-online.com/). The assessments are closely aligned with grade-level specific Arizona State standards, and are designed to help us get a clear sense of how students will do on standardized tests.

All students, grades 9 through 12, are taking periodic assessments in reading and mathematics throughout the 2011-2012 school year. The assessments are on-line and therefore all students use computers to complete them.

The next round of Galileo is taking place this month. Division I students did reading assessments in their humanities classes this week and last week. All students will take math assessments next week. Division II students will take reading assessments at the end of January.

Parents: We ask your help in explaining the purpose of these assessment to students and encouraging them to taking the testing seriously. After each round of assessments, teachers convene to analyze results, modify instruction as needed, and implement additional interventions when necessary for specific students. The results of the assessments are only informative if students try their hardest when taking them.

If you have any questions about the Galileo system or the use of benchmark assessments in general, please contact Sarah Bromer for more information: sarahb@cityhighschool.org. Sarah is our Reading Specialist, and, along with Keith Quillen, is serving as a data coach with staff this year.