MCA Testing Information

Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA)

MCA stands for Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment. This is a statewide, annual test that measures achievement on the Minnesota Academic Standards in reading, mathematics, and science. These sets of assessments are required to be administered as part of federal and state legislation.

MTAS stands for Minnesota Test of Academic Skills. It is administered instead of the MCA to students with significant cognitive disabilities.

Where can I find information about the MCA test in different languages?

English Hmong Karen Somali Spanish

Who is Expected to Take the MCA Test?
All students in grades 3-12 are expected to take the test, unless a parent or guardian submits a refusal letter opting out of the test.

How are the Results Used?

Report on student progress towards Minnesota's academic standards
Provides diagnostic instructional data for individual students and groups of students
Provides a state-wide comparison
Instructional decision-making
Monitor individual student growth
Course placement
Provides a national comparison

Frequently Asked Questions
Parent Opt Out Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How do teachers use MCA data?

Teachers use group data to reflect on the strength of their curriculum and instruction on the Minnesota Academic Standards. The MCA is often used to measure achievement of the school improvement goals. MCA may be one piece of information among several in determining entry into or exit from special programs.

How do district leaders use MCA data?

District leaders use group MCA data to reflect on curriculum and instruction across the district. Results may point to needed professional development and/or shifts in instruction. MCA data is also used to compare the performance and growth of subgroups of students and assure that we are addressing the needs of all students.

Where can I see sample items and a tutorial for my children?

What information can I get from the MCA about my child?

The MCA reports scale scores and corresponding achievement levels, a written summary of the achievement level, the state percentile rank, content area performance details, performance history to date, a written summary of growth from the previous year, progress toward career and college readiness, and access to customized student learning resources.

MCA INTERPRETIVE GUIDE

When will parents/guardians get the results of the MCA?

Official printed student reports will be distributed to parents in early fall. However, preliminary results will be uploaded to the Parent Portal frequently throughout the spring.

What are the consequences for not taking MCA?

You may lose valuable information about how your student is progressing academically. In addition, refusing may impact the school, district, and state’s efforts to equitably distribute resources and support students' learning. Depending on the number of students who refuse to test, the representation of Saint Paul Schools to the public may be adversely affected.

If my child does not take the MCA, what will he/she do while others test?

All students are expected to take the test. Please fill out a Refusal Letter if you are opting out of the test. Students will work on catching up and other assignments for other teachers. No new teaching will be done during the testing time.

What do district leaders want me to do regarding MCA participation?

We ask you to support your student's participation in this important test. If you have any questions about MCA testing and/or your student’s needs, please feel free to contact your student’s Principal/ Assistant Principals or our district Teaching and Learning Department.

Why is it important that we measure performance in the MCAs?

The Minnesota Academic Standards provide the foundation of our instruction. They are the statewide expectations for student achievement and identify the knowledge and skills all students must achieve in a content.

Where do I find the district results for the MCA?

You may look at the state’s school report card.