J. Frank White Academy (JFWA) Upper School and Senior High School are ushering in a new era of student assessment with the adoption of the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) Measures of Academic Progress (Map) beginning this academic year.
NWEA, a renowned non-profit organization, has provided assessments to over 4.5 million students across 49 foreign countries and 50 states. Unlike traditional one-time state assessments, NWEA Map testing will occur in early fall, winter, and spring, providing instant scores tailored to state standards and closely aligned with the ACT, offering a comprehensive view of student progress.
"The shift towards NWEA Map Testing reflects a commitment to better insights, better decisions, and better outcomes in preparing students for the collegiate environment,” stated Dr. Jody Goins, executive vice president for Administration at Lincoln Memorial University (LMU).
NWEA Map testing is a trusted and innovative tool for measuring achievement and growth in K–12 math, reading, language usage, and science. This assessment equips teachers with accurate, actionable evidence to inform instructional strategies, connecting them to a wide array of instructional content providers.
"Several studies have demonstrated a stronger correlation between MAP testing results and students’ ACT success than Tennessee State Standards,” noted Dr. Kristina Hudson, principal of JFWA Upper School and Senior High School. “This change will provide families with more opportunities for truly individualized education and college preparation.”
The comprehensive reports generated by NWEA Map testing facilitate data-informed decisions for educators. These reports help teachers identify common areas of need among students, pinpoint those who may benefit from intervention, and determine the most effective instructional strategies for academic growth. It empowers teachers to tailor instruction to challenge every student, regardless of their current grade level. The student reports present realistic learning goals, allowing students to track their progress and take charge of their own learning with the guidance of their teachers.
By embracing NWEA Map Testing, JFWA Upper School and Senior High School are taking a bold stride towards providing an enriched and personalized educational experience, preparing students for success in college and beyond.
In light of this strategic move, JFWA will discontinue participation in the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) and End-of-Course (EOC) assessments.
The J. Frank White Academy is a private, college preparatory day school serving grades Pre-K through 12 on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University. JFWA is fully accredited and STEM certified by Cognia, which is the first internationally recognized mark of quality for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) schools and programs, signaling the growing emphasis on STEM education by educators, politicians, and business leaders around the world. For more information contact JFWA at 423.869.6234 or visit our website at JFWA.LMUnet.edu.
