Montana General Supervision Enhancement Grant (2005-2007)

Measured Progress helped the Montana OPI to develop an alternate assessment based on modified achievement standards (AA-MAS) to include a group of students with disabilities for whom the current options, the CRT with or without accommodations and the CRT–Alternate, did not provide valid test results.

The one-year pilot study investigated the feasibility of developing alternate assessments based on modified achievement standards. This project followed the US DOE recommended test development procedures, and allowed Montana to engage Measured Progress to develop an assessment that fits seamlessly within the current system.

The pilot test, the CRT–MAS, was developed for grade 4 mathematics as a paper and pencil test. It included items that are known to show "proficient" achievement at grade level and added additional less difficult items measuring grade level content. This format allowed students to be counted in the accountability system in one of two ways. First, it was likely that some students can achieve grade level proficiency by successfully completing the most difficult items on the CRT–Modified. Second, it was possible for a student to be counted as proficient for accountability purposes based on modified achievement standards. The results of this project provided Montana with information needed to plan operational AA-MAS.

Research Reports

Montana CRT–Modified Feasibility Study, by Judy Snow, PowerPoint presented at 2007 CCSSO Large Scale Assessment Conference in Nashville, TN