Assessment
Each year students across the State of Illinois participate in standardized testing. These scores contribute to our school rating and ranking. While we understand that these tests are only a snapshot of your student’s learning, we take these assessments very seriously and work throughout the year to best prepare our students for success.
Beginning in the 2024-25 school year, the State of Illinois has made a switch from the SAT to the ACT Suite of Assessments for 9th – 11th grade students. The PreACT 8/9, PreACT and ACT are online assessments in ACT’s Suite of Assessments. The PreACT for 9th and 10th grade students offers an early experience with ACT test items, provides a predicted ACT test score, and offers a wealth of information to help students get the start they need to be college ready.
For the 2024-25 school year, the assessment schedule is as follows:
- Freshmen: PreACT 9 (date in the spring is TBD by the State of Illinois)
- Sophomores: PreACT (date in the spring is TBD by the State of Illinois)
- Juniors: PreACT on October 8, 2024
- Juniors: ACT (date in the spring is TBD by the State of Illinois)
Why take the ACT?
Starting with the 204-25 school year, the State of Illinois has determined that all Juniors enrolled in Illinois public high schools will take the ACT. Junior students must take the in-school online ACT with Essay in order to receive a high school diploma, unless the student qualifies to take an alternative assessment.
The ACT gives your child a chance to demonstrate their learning with questions that are aligned with our curriculum they learning in class. Taking the ACT can be beneficial for several reasons:
- College Admissions: Many colleges and universities use ACT scores as part of their admissions process. A strong score can enhance your application and potentially increase your chances of getting accepted.
- Scholarships: High ACT scores can qualify you for various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Some merit-based scholarships use ACT scores as a criterion for eligibility.
- College Placement: Some colleges use ACT scores to place students in appropriate courses. Higher scores might place you into more advanced classes, which can be beneficial for your academic progress.
- Comparative Assessment: The ACT provides a standardized measure to compare students from different schools and backgrounds. It assesses your skills in English, math, reading, and science.
- Skills Assessment: Preparing for and taking the ACT can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses in these subjects. This can guide your study efforts and academic focus.
- Preparation for Future Exams: Taking the ACT can help you get accustomed to standardized testing formats, which can be beneficial for future tests like the SAT, GRE, or professional exams.
- Ultimately, taking the ACT can be a strategic move in your college application process and can open up opportunities for academic and financial advancement.
We encourage seniors to retake the ACT this fall. Historically, two out of three students improve their ACT score the second time they take the test. Juniors will take the ACT this spring. The ACT offers several opportunities for your child to put their best score forward.