Through insights gained from 25 years developing full-service, standards-based assessments in more than half the states, Measured Progress assessment experts recognize the importance of quality, rigor, and transparency of assessment information in order to impact teaching and learning. Districts use local assessment as a barometer of where their students are on the learning continuum and a predictor of their performance on state tests. It is critical that tests yield accurate, useful data in a timely manner

PTS3 does just that. In addition to providing standards-based scales and performance levels similar to those seen in today's state assessment systems, a unique benefit of PTS3 is the fact that educators can actually see the test items -- along with student reports -- immediately after testing. By seeing the whole picture, teachers can make critical decisions to adjust student instruction in real time.

Another key benefit of PTS3 is the quality of the testing experience for students. PTS3 items look and feel like statewide assessment questions; students not only a have an effective classroom testing experience, but also gain familiarity with items that are content rich, psychometrically sound, aligned to respected national standards, and subject to extensive content and bias reviews.

The delivery system is intuitive, and the underlying technology is beneficial but not distracting. PTS3 is delivered on a browser-based platform, so there is no need to download software to individual computers. PTS3 is also Section 508 compliant; it works with several assistive technology tools, allowing the greatest possible number of students to participate.

In short, PTS3 reflects the most pressing assessment needs of the local educator—relevant content, rapid turnaround of results, administration flexibility, technical excellence, and above all, information that is truly helpful.

"We are committed to helping local students and educators," said Stuart Kahl, Measured Progress president, chief executive officer, and co-founder. "PTS3 reflects that commitment, as well as years of research, making it a valuable part of a balanced assessment system."