What do educational agencies aim to achieve with their annual screening tests?

Educational agencies conduct annual screening tests primarily to measure student growth in core academic areas. These assessments are designed to provide data on students’ academic performance and developmental progress over time. By focusing on core subjects such as reading, mathematics, and writing, the tests help educators identify individual student needs, adjust instruction, and monitor improvement. This continuous evaluation is essential for tailoring educational interventions to support each student's learning trajectory effectively.

While comparing students against national standards can be a component of some assessments, the primary goal of the annual screening tests is centered on growth and development rather than mere comparison. Measuring individual teacher performance and evaluating the effectiveness of school administration are typically achieved through different methods and metrics, not through standardized screening tests designed for student learning assessment.