Assessments and Testing

Technical Academies of Minnesota uses a variety of tools to measure and determine a student’s academic growth and proficiency by grade-level standards. These tools range from informal assessments observed during classroom activities to more formal or mandated assessments, such as the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA), Capti Read Basix, STAR Math, and college entrance exams. Educators can use these assessments to identify students' needs, adjust instructional strategies to meet those needs, and encourage individualized academic growth.

The following list includes information on each major assessment used by Technical Academies of Minnesota schools, DREAM and CHOICE, the dates when they occur, the average time required to complete them, and the justification for their use.  For any questions regarding TAM’s use of assessments, please contact District Assessment Coordinator Dawn Bergh (dbergh@technicalacademies.org).

 

2026-2027 Testing Schedule

Capti Read Basix  

ReadBasix is a diagnostic reading assessment designed specifically for secondary students. ReadBasix is the only assessment that quickly and reliably identifies the root causes of secondary students' reading difficulties. The subtests take approximately 10-30 minutes to complete.  

STAR Math

The Star Math test is a computer-adaptive math assessment designed for students in grades 1–12 to measure math achievement, track growth, and guide classroom instruction. It typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete and consists of 34 multiple-choice questions. 

Fall Testing: for Capti and STAR

DREAM testing will occur September 8th-11th 

CHOICE testing will occur on August 31st

Testing window will be August 31st - October 2nd for Capti and STAR 

Winter Testing: for Capti and STAR

DREAM and CHOICE testing will occur December 7th-11th

Testing window will be December 1st- January 15th for Capti and STAR  

   Spring Testing: for Capti and STAR

DREAM and CHOICE Capti and STAR testing will occur April 12th-16th 

Testing window will be April 12th - May 14th for Capti and STAR  

 

ACT plus Writing Test - Spring (March 2027):

It is required for TAM schools to offer the ACT to all 11th- and 12th-grade students by the state of Minnesota.  The test has five sections (English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing) and takes 3 hours and 35 minutes.  TAM recommends this test for any student planning to go to college.

MCA Tests - Spring: (Required for all students in the applicable grade level)

Statewide assessment. Required for all students in the applicable grade level.

MCA Reading: Grades 7, 8, and 10 

MCA Math: Grades 7, 8, 11 

MCA Science: 8th grade and High School

The MCA tests are required by the state of Minnesota. 

Spring Testing: for MCA

DREAM and CHOICE MCA testing will occur March 8th-19th  

Testing window will be March 8th - May 7th for Reading and Mathematics for MCA

Testing window will be March 8 - May 14th for Science

 

ACCESS - January 2027