Dear Gesu Families,
In grades 5-8, students are placed in grade-level, honors, or advanced classes for reading and math. Throughout this school year, the administration has collaborated with the reading and math teachers to determine updated placement criteria.
The rationale for a change in criteria came after several years of ongoing discussion regarding student placement. Subjectivity involved in placement led to students being placed in classes that were above or below their ability. While a student’s work ethic should be ever-developing, we believe this work ethic should be built in a classroom that matches his/her current skill level.
Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, MAP and CoGAT scores will be used to determine a student’s placement in math and reading.
An average score will be taken from the last three MAP percentile scores and the CoGAT percentile score in either the verbal or quantitative section. The lowest of the three MAP percentiles will be dropped.
Example Math Placement:
Fall = 82
Winter = 87
Spring = 79 (Dropped)
CoGAT Quantitative = 85
82 + 87 + 85 = 85 (average)
Students will then be placed in order of their percentile average score.
Important to note, this new criterion will be used for rising 5th graders, new students, and students in grades 6, 7, and 8 who request a class change.
MAP and CoGAT scores have been sent home today. Please check your child/ren's Wednesday Folder.
We appreciate your partnership, as we strive to provide a solid education for each and every Gesu student.
AMDG,
Mrs. Regan Kazel
Principal