Dear Parent/Guardian,
The Maine Educational Assessments (MEA) include required assessments in Mathematics, English Language Arts (ELA)/Literacy, and Science. These assessments aim to align with the content and skills outlined i n the standards that guide classroom instruction and to provide information about student learning. Assessment data allows our district to track cohort information over time, so we can follow specific grade levels and determine ways to meet the unique needs o f each group of students and individual learners. Each test can only give a partial picture of achievement. In RSU 38, we combine local assessments, student grades, and teacher reports to provide a comprehensive picture of student progress.
The State uses the Maine Through-Year Assessment i n Math and Reading in Grades 3 through 8 and the 2nd year of high school, which was administered during the fall (between September 15 and October 24, 2025) and again this spring (between April 13 and May 29, 2026). Additionally, the district will assess students i n Grades K through 2 and Grade 9 using the MAP Growth Reading and Math during the State testing windows. The fall and spring administrations of the Maine Through Year Assessment will continue to provide RIT scores for all grade levels assessed to measure student growth over time; however, the spring assessment additionally measures a student's on-grade proficiency for the required grade levels.
The online MEA Science assessment designed by New Meridian is for students in grades 5, 8, and the 3rd year of HS. The window for the MEA Science assessment is between April 1 and April 17 (high school) and May 11 and May 22, 2026 (grades 5 & 8). Finally, a small percentage of students with significant cognitive disabilities take an alternate assessment based on alternate achievement standards. The Maine State Alternative Assessment (MSAA) in Mathematics, ELA/Literacy, and Science will occur between March 9 and April 24, 2026. Your child's school will provide specific dates for these assessments closer to the testing window.
We are committed to providing parents and families in our community with accurate information about the value of student participation in statewide assessments. Parents can request the district's policies and procedures regarding student participation in state and local assessments. The district will provide all applicable information to families when requested.
When students do not participate i n state assessments, valuable information is lost. We must test all students to have an accurate picture o f how to use our resources to best meet our students' needs. We are confident that with the quality instruction delivered by our dedicated educators and your support, our students can meet and exceed these expectations. We encourage you to contact your child's teacher and/or school administrator with questions about the MEA or your child's progress.
Sincerely,
Karen G. Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent