Over the next two weeks, our students in grades K through 8 will participate in winter STAR testing, an important part of how we monitor progress and plan instruction to best meet the needs of every learner.
All K–8 students will complete both a literacy and a math STAR assessment between Monday, January 12, and Friday, January 23. These assessments provide valuable data that helps our teachers understand student strengths, identify areas for growth, and adjust instruction moving forward.
This year, we have strengthened our support system by implementing WIN time (What I Need) in every classroom across grades K–8. WIN time allows teachers to provide targeted, individualized instruction based on student needs. Using STAR results, teachers focus on specific skills recommended for each student, ensuring instruction is purposeful and responsive.
In addition to small group and individualized instruction during WIN time, students also use programs such as IXL to practice and reinforce targeted skills in both literacy and math. These tools allow students to work at their own level while giving teachers real-time data to guide instruction.
Teachers meet weekly in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to review STAR and IXL data together. During these meetings, teachers collaborate, analyze trends, and plan strategies to better support each student. This consistent use of data ensures that instruction remains focused, intentional, and aligned to student needs.
As testing approaches, we ask families to partner with us by helping students arrive at school ready to do their best. Please ensure your child is getting a good night’s sleep and eating healthy meals during the testing window. These simple steps help create the best possible conditions for students to show what they know.
STAR results will be shared with families in early February. Once results are reviewed, teachers will work with students to set goals and plan next steps as we prepare for the final round of STAR testing in the spring.
We are excited to see the growth our students continue to make and look forward to supporting each learner through intentional instruction, targeted supports, and meaningful goal setting.
St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school that serves preschool and elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.
