STAR testing was originally created as a reding test, meaning “Standardized Test for the Assessment of Reading,” but now freshmen take STAR math tests too.

“STAR testing allows us to see where a student is at, mathematically,” math instructor Jayme Goetz said. “It shows us areas that they struggle or excel in and allows us to make informed decisions when we place them in different classes.”

For example, STAR testing and previous grades are used to decide if a student should be in an advanced class instead of a “regular” class.

STAR testing is not prepared for, unlike other standardized tests.

“We just want to see the students ability,” Goetz said.

Goetz said she finds the test to be helpful, but students like freshman Grace McCord disagree.

“I have never found the test to be helpful, I have always viewed it as a comparison to other students,” McCord said.

McCord said she feels as though unnecessary pressure is put on students by testing like STAR and the teachers which heavily rely on it.

However, McCord does say her parents view and assess the STAR tests.

“They use it in addition to my other tests it to see if I am taking school seriously,” McCord said.

21kboyle@usd489.com