The MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) is a test created by the Northwest Evaluation Association. This test is taken online by students from second to twelfth grade. The test is used to show which students perform at, below, or above their grade level. MAP adjusts to the student as they take the test. Each question the student gets right leads to a higher level question, or to lower level if the answered incorrectly. The test is supposed to be taken three to four times every year and gives results within 24 hours. The test is untimed; however, it takes an average of sixty minutes per test for the average student.

Shelby County Students were unexpectedly bombarded with the MAP test. Teachers were told about the test two weeks before it was taken, and students were told one week before. To accommodate for the testing, the normal seven-class schedule was changed to a four-class block schedule. This schedule was supposed to be used for two weeks, but it had to be changed to three (October 19- November 6). During a student’s math and English classes on the designated days, students reported to the library to take the test. There, students faced many technical difficulties (slowness, crashing of the computers, etc.). Some students received their results the next time they reported to their math and English classes but were not shown what exactly they got wrong. Those who did poorly on the test will have to take it again throughout the school year. If they still show no improvement, they will be required to take remedial courses the next year. Seniors face a similar issue despite the fact that they will not be in high school the next year.

The purpose of this petition is to move MAP into the summer and to make it a requirement for enrollment in school. Students would come to school one day in the summer, and take the math and English portions. This way, no class time will be lost, and those who need remediation can be put in their respective classes. By signing this petition, students will be able to be less stressed, have more class time, and be able to focus on what matters.