Missouri standardized tests return to pre-pandemic normal this spring

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Two years after the pandemic canceled standardized testing for all Missouri students, tests this spring will look similar to a pre-pandemic normal.

In spring 2020, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education canceled standardized testing due to the pandemic and a lack of in-person learning.

Over 90% of Missouri students did take the test last year, but students and schools were not impacted by the scores. In a normal year, the tests get close to perfect attendance. This year's tests will look similar to last year, but it will be up to the district on how the scores impact the students.

Prior to the pandemic, low test scores could impact how much state and federal funding a school receives. This year, as part of Missouri's newest school improvement program (MSIP 6), DESE says scores will be used to measure a school's progress, but will not punish districts on measures like accreditation. 

The latest program was developed over five years and was approved by DESE in February 2020.

DESE said schools will use the scores to measure a student's performance impacted by the pandemic. But Noelle, Gilzow Columbia Public School teacher says she is unsure if that's how the scores will be used.

"I would love to say that our state is looking at our test scores as a means for recognizing how the pandemic impacted our students. But my gut tells me that they are going to use those numbers as a measure of school performance to fund or not fund schools," Gilzow said.

Schools will have from April 4 until Memorial Day to administer the tests.