Only 5th graders were assessed in science MCAs at Knoll Elementary School in 2023-24 school year

Knoll Elementary School reported that fifth graders were the only students assessed in the science portion of the 2023-24 MCA, according to the Minnesota Department of Education.

All 41 students who took that portion of the test in Knoll Elementary School were enrolled in the fifth grade.

The number of fifth graders taking the science MCAs rose from the previous school year, when 37 students were assessed.

Overall, 63.4% of the students in the fifth grade were considered proficient in science, according to the test standards.

The MCA and the Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS) are the state tests that help districts measure student progress toward Minnesota’s academic standards and also meet federal and state legislative requirements. The tests cover math, reading and science, depending on the grade that is being tested. Most students take the MCA, but students who receive special education services and meet eligibility requirements may take the MTAS instead.

Overall proficiency on Minnesota's MCA exams has declined compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to Minnesota's Report Card. Math proficiency, for example, dropped by more than 7% from 2019, while reading proficiency fell by almost 5%.