Assessing student learning is an essential aspect education, as it provides valuable data to districts, schools, families and students. Educators, policymakers, and the assessment community use assessment data to improve education, and to target supports and resources for Maine students. As outlined in ESSA, students are required to participate in statewide ELA/literacy and mathematics assessments in grades 3-8 and 3rd year of high school. To read more about both the general and alternate assessments in ELA/literacy and math, please visit the specific assessment pages.

General Math & ELA/Literacy
The Maine Department of Education is excited to share our continued support of Maine educators, schools and school administrative units by replacing the former MEA assessment for Math & ELA/Literacy standards with an assessment for students in grades 3-8 and 3rd year of high school that will provide timely and actionable data for instruction. In addition, schools will have access to use the assessment with grade 10 students, should they choose. Beginning March 1, 2021, the Department will be providing the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) – MAP GROWTH assessment.

Alternate Math & ELA/Literacy
The Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) is Maine’s alternate assessment for Math & English ELA/literacy. This assessment is administered in grades 3-8 and 3rd year of high school and is designed for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.
Administration Materials are in the process of being updated and will be available soon. Stay up to date on anticipated documents by subscribing to the MEA Listservs, , or visiting our Monthly Updates for the Assessment team.
General Assessment (MEA) Listserv https://mailman.informe.org/mailman/listinfo/mea
Alternate Assessment Listserv https://mailman.informe.org/mailman/listinfo/alternateassessments