Understanding Georgia Milestones Scores for Parents
The Georgia Milestones assessment reports provide a wealth of information, but deciphering it all can be confusing. Here's a breakdown of the scoring system and how to interpret the results as a parent:
Achievement Levels:
- Distinguished Learner (DL): Exceeds expectations, demonstrating a strong understanding of the content.
- Proficient Learner (PL): Meets expectations, demonstrating a solid grasp of the content and readiness for the next grade level.
- Developing Learner (DL): Needs additional support to meet expectations. Areas for improvement will be highlighted.
- Beginning Learner (BL): Requires significant support to meet expectations.
Score Reports:
- Scale Score: Your child's raw score, which may vary slightly if the test is retaken.
- Grade Conversion Score (EOC only): For high school courses, this score translates the scale score into a 0-100 range used for calculating final grades.
- National Percentile Rank: Shows how your child performed compared to a national sample of students (may not be available for all subjects).
- Example: A percentile rank of 78 means your child scored higher than 78% of the national sample.
- Student Growth Percentile (SGP): (Not always available) Indicates your child's academic growth compared to similar students in Georgia.
- Domain Achievement: Provides details on how your child performed in specific content areas within a subject (e.g., Reading vs. Writing in ELA).
Interpreting the Results:
The achievement level (DL, PL, etc.) is the most straightforward indicator of your child's overall performance. It tells you if they met expectations for their grade level.
- DL or PL: These scores are positive. A PL indicates your child is on track, while a DL suggests they excel.
- DL: Focus on maintaining this level and discuss any areas for improvement with your child's teacher.
- PL: Celebrate the achievement and continue supporting their learning.
- BL: This score indicates a need for additional support.