Acuity

This year our building is going to begin using Acuity for benchmark assessments and data gathering.  As a classroom teacher I am extremely excited about the possibilities.  We have used benchmarks every year, but they have always been district developed benchmarks that are graded by the teachers which, in some cases, makes them very subjective.  I am anxious to get an objective picture of where my students are academically.  This tool would also be extremely effective for administrators to use to gather data and provided guidance to teachers.  Having the ability to quickly get a snapshot of test scores across the building and the district, and to allow those scores to guide instruction throughout the building will allow administrators to have a firm grasp on where the students in that building are succeeding and struggling.  From this data, conversations can be had, collaboration can be structured, and professional development can be aligned to the specific needs of the students.

I would love to hear from others who have used this program.  Please share any benefits or downfalls that you have encountered.  The first year of implementation can often be the most difficult.