Hello Lyon Families,

The purpose of this letter is to inform you that your child will be taking the state MAP test between April 19-May 14. All students must test in person, even if they are usually virtual.  Health and safety measures have been in place since October.  Information about those measures are below and we will orient to students to these routines as soon as they arrive at school for their test. 

The testing schedule is as follows:

Overview of the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP)

MAP stands for Missouri Assessment Program. It is a series of assessments for English Language Arts, Mathematics and Science at grades 3-8. MAP assessments are designed to see if students in Missouri are meeting the Show-Me Standards. Grade-Level Assessments are given in English Language Arts and Mathematics at grades 3-8, while Science is assessed at grades 5 and 8.

The Missouri Learning Standards define the knowledge and skills students need in each grade and content area for success in college, other post-secondary trainings and careers. The Missouri Learning Standards give school administrators, teachers, parents and students a roadmap for learning expectations in each grade and course; the Missouri Assessment Program access’ those standards.

General Questions

How will students arrive to school on testing days?

In-Person students will get to school as they normally do, via bus, parent drop off and/or pick-up and walk.

Virtual students can catch the bus or be dropped off with the option of being picked up from school once they have completed testing.

Morning and afternoon bus transportation is available for virtual students that would like to stay for the entire day. We will reach out to all parents of virtual students the weeks of April 5-16 to confirm your mode of transportation. If you would like to drop off your child for testing, please ensure that they arrive by 8 AM on the days they test.

Bus riders are required to wear a mask while on the bus. Drivers will ensure physical distancing is maintained on the bus and instruct students on where to sit.

Where will the virtual students test?

• Testing for in-person students will take place in their regular classroom with their classroom teacher.
• Testing for virtual students will test in separate classrooms in the building to allow for social distancing and safety.

Homeroom teachers and other Lyon staff members will administer the testing for virtual students that are in the building. It is required that all Missouri Assessment Program testing for students be on site.

Can parents pick up their children after the testing is complete for the day?

Parents/guardians may pick up their children after their testing is complete. Parents must arrange ahead of the testing day with the office regarding picking up their child. All virtual students will be housed away from other in person students. Parents can also choose to have their virtual student remain in school for the entire day(s) of testing. Students will not miss any virtual lessons or assignments on days the test.

What technology is used for testing?

For State Testing, all iPads serving 3rd through 8th Grades will be locked down for testing. iPads will be reset to their normal settings after testing. All students will use their district issued iPad. All iPads must be charged nightly.

We ask that all virtual students bring their fully charged iPad to school along with a charger. We will have additional technology in the building for students who never picked up an iPad at the beginning of the school year. Headphones will be given to each student. Headphones and tablets will not be shared.

Will physical distancing and COVID-19 safety protocols be in place?

YES. All students will adhere to physical distancing practices (at least six feet between students at all time) and mask mandates. All students will have assigned seats. All students MUST wear a facemask.

Will Health Check Procedures occur every day?

YES. Temperatures of students will be taken at the beginning of each school day.

Parents are encouraged to ask their child about symptoms of illness before sending them to school. This will reduce the chance that parents will send their child to school when they are ill. The parent will be contacted if a student reports to school and has a temperature of 100.4 or higher or describes symptoms of being ill. We will have a designated room in the building for that student until the parent arrives. Routine cleaning and disinfecting will take place in the testing room to maintain a safe environment for all.

Will Prevention Procedures be in place 100% of the day?

YES. Handwashing will take place before and after lunch and as students frequent the restroom. All students will adhere to physical distancing practices (at least six feet between students at all time) and mask mandates. All students will have assigned seats.

All students MUST wear a facemask.

What is the morning procedure for dropping off my child?

Our doors open at 7:40. All students may enter through Door # 11 off of Virginia Avenue. Staff will be outside to help virtual students check in and go to their testing room.

What happens if my child does not take the test?

It is a districtwide expectation that each student in grades 3-8 take the MAP test (make up days are available). If you are unable to come to the building to take the MAP, please let the office know. The office’s phone number is 314-353-1349.

Will lunch be provided?

Yes, breakfast and lunch will be provided for all students. Students may bring their lunch if they choose. Brain breaks and restroom breaks will also take place during testing. All virtual students that are attending school for the MAP test will eat breakfast and lunch in the same classroom they test in.

Thank you for ensuring your student is at school on time the days she or he is testing. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns about MAP.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ingrid Iskali