Perspective: Upcoming ACT event will offer excellent feedback

Jefferson City will join all high schools across Missouri when juniors take the American College Testing college readiness assessment (ACT) on April 28. The testing is mandated by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

At JCHS, as in other schools, it will provide excellent feedback to both students and teachers and will make it possible to compare the progress of JCHS students with those of other students in Missouri and across the nation.

On the same day, JCHS sophomores will take a standards-based assessment called the ACT Aspire test, and seniors will take part in a meaningful but fun-filled day called "the last recess."

In addition, JCPS will provide an ACT testing site on April 28 for the area parochial and home school students who previously registered.

JCHS Assistant Principal Shanna Schwarzer and counselor Melodi Graessle have spearheaded the effort to get ready for the testing date.

Because the tests are required, and because the senior activities are organized to provide valuable information in the days leading up to graduation, it is important that all students be present on that date.

It would be best if families scheduled doctor or dental checkups on a date other than April 28.

This is the first year that all Missouri high schools are required to have juniors take the ACT.

"We are very serious about it," Graessle said, "and we are doing some test prep with the students. I think it's going to show us some areas of concern that we can address."

Here are some important facts you will want to know:

  1. There is no cost to the students to take the ACT on the April 28 date. In addition, students can have their ACT scores reported to as many as four colleges or universities. "It's an expensive test," Graessle said, "and it is good that this gives each student one free shot at a college admission test."
  2. As usual, it is best to get a good night of rest and a good breakfast before the test.
  3. JCHS will be under strict ACT testing guidelines that day. "Testing guidelines include start times, no cell phones, breaks, scheduled snacks, etc.," Schwarzer said. Graessle added, "It is an ACT regulation that they have to have their cell phone off and put away. It can be in their bag, but it can't be on their person."
  4. On the ACT day, JCHS seniors will prepare for the final weeks of school and for graduation, and will also have the opportunity to help with service projects, to gain A-Plus hours, and to take part in fun activities. "It will be fun and celebratory in nature," Schwarzer said, "but it is also important so that we finalize senior intention plans."

Some seniors will work at elementary schools or do pre-arranged volunteer work. For instance, some will help the Salvation Army prepare meals. As a part of the senior activities, a number of businesses are providing assistance. "We appreciate several local businesses that are helping that day," Schwarzer said. "We've got good community support."

Also in the days ahead, JCHS will have important End-of-Course (EOC) testing. On April 24 and 27, students enrolled in English III will take the English III EOC. On May 4-5, students will be tested who are enrolled in biology, algebra, geometry, and algebra II. On May 6, students will be tested who are enrolled in government and U.S. History.

The ACT and EOC testing sessions will be a learning opportunity for students and will enable JCHS to get valuable data on what needs the most attention in the future. It's certainly time well spent.

David Wilson, EdD, is the associate principal at Jefferson City High School. You may email him at [email protected].