High School Proficiency Exam Nevada Department of Education

Overview Setting standards Determining proficiency cut scores Scope of charge Presentation of options Recommendation

Reset HSPE standards? Spring 2010 tests in math and science were based on new academic content standards adopted by the State Board (2006). Test blueprints defining distribution of items by content strand and DOK level had changed. Curriculum and instruction had changed to be based on the adopted academic content standards.

Setting proficiency standards NDE staff and stakeholder groups create Achievement Level Descriptors (ALDs) Convene standard setting panel Panelists take the test Panelists create profiles describing knowledge, skills and abilities of a “proficient student”. Using a bookmarking procedure, panelists establish recommendation for minimum number of items that a proficient student must get correct. (3 rounds, with discussion)

Setting proficiency standards cont’ Panelists representing diverse stakeholder groups including: master teachers, LEP, IEP, higher education, parents, and community Panels use industry standard “Bookmark” procedures to set cut scores Panel decisions are presented to SBE as recommendations Recommendations based on projected impact of new standards on passing rates Recommendations include bias to minimize “false negative” classifications

Setting current standards? Math – 2010 Science – 2010 Reading/ Writing In 2010, Math panel recommended cut score of 300 Transitional score of 242 adopted for 3-year period ( ) based on impact data and staff recommendation.

State of the HSPE

Scope of Authority The Board should address graduating classes in , , and – 2014 Cohort – 2015 Cohort – 2016 Cohort The Legislature (AB 288) did not intend for the Board to reach back into the requirements for previous graduating classes.

Consideration of Options Take no action Adopt a compensatory scoring model – Establish minimum level of performance per subject. – Establish maximum compensatory score for all (not including writing). Establish a cut score for Math but not a compensatory scoring model

Option 1: Take no Action 2013/2014 Gr 12 and Adult – Meets Standard 300 Science 300 ELA 242 Math 7.0 Writing 2013/2014 Gr 11 and Gr 10 – Meets Standard 300 Science 300 ELA 300 Math 7.0 Writing

Option 2: Compensatory Model Math Science ELA Minimum acceptable level of knowledge and skills. Advanced or mastery level of performance. Compensatory Total = Minimum score(s) + Higher score(s)

Option 2: Compensatory Model The HSPE was not originally designed for compensatory scoring. To do it correctly, convene group to establish – Cut scores (min and max) per subject; and – Compensatory model (e.g., min + min + max = compensatory standard).

Option 3: Establish a Math Cut Score Apply Spring 2010 rationale and process to today. Cause NDE to work with test vendor to apply rigorous evaluation and empirical base to cut score. Anticipated: – Increase Math transition cut score 2013/2014- Gr 12 and Adult – Math /2014 – Gr 10 and Gr 11 – Math 252

Recommendation Consider Option 3: Direct NDE to work with test vendor to apply rigorous evaluation and provide empirical base to math cut score. – Appropriate – Efficient – keep resources directed to development of EOCs – Fair

Questions