Assessment

Overview

Students learn best when teachers and school staff have a clear picture of what each student knows and is ready to learn next. District 287 uses various assessments to help. Below is important information about these assessments.

2025-2026 Intermediate District 287 Testing Calendar

Opt Out of State Testing

District 287 administers state-mandated tests to all eligible students. To opt out of these state tests (e.g., Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) and Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS)), the parent/guardian must complete the form below and return it to the student’s school. Please submit this form to your student’s school no later than January 15 of the academic school year. For students who enroll after a statewide testing window begins, please submit the form within two weeks of enrollment. A new refusal form is required each year parents/guardians wish to opt the student out of state tests.

MCA/MTAS/Alt-MCA Opt-Out Form

MCA/MTAS/ALT-MCA OPT-OUT FORM - HMONG

MCA/MTAS/ALT-MCA OPT-OUT FORM - SOMALI

MCA/MTAS/ALT-MCA OPT-OUT FORM - SPANISH

Academic Assessments

In addition to the typical assessments given in the classroom, students in District 287 complete various district-wide academic assessments during the school year. These assessments help teachers understand what would best help students learn, as well as measure how much they have grown. In Reading and Math, students may complete computer-based assessments from Fastbridge Learning. Contact your school's leader for more information.