2025 Kansas MTSS & Alignment Symposium

Can thoughtful systemic benchmark assessments effectively change instruction? Two large Kansas districts developed a district comprehensive assessment system aligned with their pacing and curriculum to inform classroom strategies and support the level of rigor needed for state assessment readiness. When designed thoughtfully a comprehensive assessment footprint can provide teachers with clear insights into student understanding, enabling actionable feedback and instructional adjustments. By examining patterns in student thinking across assessments and learning experiences, educators can uncover deeper insights into students' conceptual development, learning processes, and schemas, allowing for more targeted and sustained instructional adjustments. Emphasizing growth over evaluation, assessment should promote clarity, individualized support, and professional development, ultimately enhancing student outcomes.