PSAT Results and HSA Updates

by Cindy Walter, School test coordinator

All students who took the PSAT/NMSQT in October will receive an official Score Report and their test booklet in December in their first period class. They will receive scores in critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills and will see how their scores compare to those of other students across the country. Through a question-by-question review of answers, students will be able to see which answers they got right or wrong. They will also receive a personalized statement of specific academic skills that need attention along with suggested steps to improve those skills. Students who take the test will receive free access to My College QuickStart, an online college and career planning tool that contains many important elements to help students plan their academic futures. Each score report will come with a letter to parents that will help you decipher all information.

The PSAT results provide personalized information on the types of skills that the student needs to improve to prepare for the SAT and college. If you are interested in learning more about this testing program, please visit the website at: www.collegeboard.com.

The Maryland State Board of Education voted in favor of including passage of the Maryland High School Assessments (HSA) for the Class of 2009 and beyond as part of the State’s requirements for receiving a Maryland High School Diploma. The State Board also supported implementing the Bridge Plan for Academic Validation as an option for those students who are having difficulty passing one or more of the HSAs. We continue to offer free after school intervention programs to help students pass these tests; letters have gone out to students who need to retake tests in January of 2008. Intervention offered online can be accessed at http://msde.mdk12oline.org. Any questions or concerns may be directed to my office or my email address: cbwalter.mail.worcester.k12.md.us.