A brief glance at the school calendar reveals a myriad of testing acronyms – PSAT, SAT, PLAN, and ACT.  Although most of us recognize these test names and undoubtedly have memories of lost Saturdays when we took them, I thought it might be helpful to provide some explanation of the tests MPA Upper School students take and how to interpret their results.

Two kinds of standardized tests are given – aptitude tests and achievement tests.  An aptitude test measures applied knowledge and developed ability.  These tests are, to a large degree, a reflection of innate ability.  Achievement tests measure accrued knowledge and, as a result, can be enhanced by a comprehensive college preparatory education. 

In the Upper School, students take standardized tests beginning in tenth grade.  In the spring of tenth grade, students take an achievement test called the PLAN (Pre-ACT), which measures skills developed in English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning.  On October 17th, tenth and eleventh graders will take the PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test), which measures verbal and mathematical ability.  In addition, juniors take their first “real” college entrance examination test, the SAT or Scholastic Aptitude Test, which measures the same types of abilities that the PSAT does.  Finally, our seniors take the ACT (American College Test), which measures classroom achievement in four broad content areas – reading, English usage and mechanics, mathematics and science reasoning.

Each year in our “School Profile” publication, we indicate the four-year history of SAT and ACT averages.  Although these scores are useful when looking at trends, it should be recognized that the scores for any particular year are just a snapshot of a particular class.  In terms of college admissions, group statistics about one facet of school life are not always the most meaningful, especially in a small school.  These scores are meaningful when examined for an individual in combination with her/his history of high school accomplishments.   Colleges consider far more than test scores alone.  

Our goal is not to “teach to the test” but instead help our students develop the ability to become enthusiastic, life-long learners who will live satisfying lives and be responsible citizens.  Our outstanding college preparatory education supports student achievement and our emphasis on experiential learning develops their ability to apply their knowledge.

Hopefully, this has given you some basic information about standardized testing at the Upper School level.  In December, there will be a tenth grade parent meeting to discuss PSAT results and what they mean.  If you have further questions, please contact the Upper School Office or the College Counseling Office.

What’s happening in the Upper School:

Friday, October 5th, 7:00 p.m.:  Dereck Crim of Hazelden will speak to parents on the topic of Teens, Alcohol and Drugs.  Any interested parents are welcome to join this PIE (Parents in Education) Night activity.  Click here for more information.

Sunday, October 7th:  MISP College Fair at MPA

Click here for more information.

Tuesday, October 9th, 7:00 p.m. in the Nicholson Center:  Rick Lavoie – Rick Lavoie is a national recognized speaker.  Rick will talk about “Parenting Today:  Unique Pleasures and Unique Pressures.”  This seminar will explore the every-changing world of childhood and the challenges faced by parents.

Friday, October 12th, MPA Cultural Fair, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.:  Bring your family and friends to celebrate the cultural diversity of our community and the world.  Admission is free.  There will be food, demos, classes, and workshops, and a featured performance by Flamenco guitarist Cuadro Folklorico

Wednesday, October 17th, 1/2 day: 

There are no classes for seniors.  Seniors are encouraged to use the long weekend to visit colleges.  Eleventh and tenth grades will take the PSAT beginning at 8:30 a.m.  The test will end at approximately 11:30 a.m.  Ninth graders will attend their first and second block classes.  There are no afternoon classes.  Lunch will not be served.  Enjoy the long weekend!

Friday, October 19th, 10:15 a.m.:  Renee Sonka, MPA Visual Art teacher, is organizing a group from MPA to attend the Georgia O’Keeffe exhibit at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.  The exhibit is called Georgia O’Keeffe: Circling Around Abstraction, and features over 40 of O’Keeffe’s works including paintings and sculpture.  All those interested are welcome to join in the experience.  The group will meet at the MIA’s east entrance at 10:15 a.m. on Friday, October 19th.  If interested in joining, please contact Ms. Sonka by October 12th at rsonka@moundsparkacademy.org.  The museum will need an accurate head count so they can be prepared to accommodate the group.  Admission and a one hour guided tour will be free if there are at least 8 participants.