Montana: Testing Information

Two tests are required annually in Montana:

• The Iowa Tests, norm-referenced tests (NRT), are required and funded by the state of Montana.  The Iowa Tests are published by Riverside Publishing Company.   A norm-referenced test (NRT) compares student achievement to achievement of a national norm group.The Iowa Tests (NRT) are administered in grades 4, 8, and 11 in Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies and Science.

• The, criterion-referenced tests (CRT), are required and funded by the No Child Left Behind Act. Montana's CRT is published by Measured Progress, Inc.  A criterion-referenced test (CRT ) compares student achievement to content standards.  Montana's criterion-referenced test compares student achievement to Montana content standards.  Montana's CRTs are administered in grades 3 - 8, and 10 in Reading and Mathematics.

The tentative testing window for student testing is Spring.  Be sure and check with your local school for specific dates that vary from year to year.

Test results for both the NRT and CRT are sent to schools and districts before the end of the  school year. However, in 2006 the CRT test results will not be available until fall. Test results are used to inform classroom instruction to improve student learning.

• Math Proficiency Admission Standards
• Montana Content & Performance Standards
• Montana GED Testing Policies
• Montana's No Child Left Behind Report Card" required by President Bush's No Child Left Behind Act
• OPI Assessment - MontCAS