In late summer/fall, all public school districts, charters schools and full time Career and Technology Centers across the Commonwealth receive web-based reporting through the Pennsylvania Value-Added Assessment System (PVAAS). PVAAS is data that offers an objective and more precise way to measure student progress and the value schools and districts add to students' educational experiences. Pennsylvania is one of only four states providing this information statewide to all school districts. PVAAS is one of the tools in the cadre of tools provided to districts from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Districts and schools are using PVAAS (progress data), in conjunction with achievement data, to make sure all students are on the trajectory to proficiency. Utilizing all the data available (progress and achievement), educators are able to make data-informed instructional decisions to ensure the academic growth and achievement of all students.
Achievement results (PSSA) and growth results (PVAAS) must be used together to get a complete picture of student learning. To view the achievement results of Pennsylvania's public districts/schools, go to: http://paayp.emetric.net/. To view the growth results of Pennsylvania's public districts/schools, go to: https://pvaas.sas.com.
PVAAS provides feedback to key questions:
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Did each group make a year’s worth of growth in reading (grades 4-8 and 11), math (grades 4-8 and 11), science (grades 4, 8 and 11), and writing (grades 5, 8 and 11)?
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Did each subgroup make a year’s worth of growth in reading (grades 4-8 and 11), math (grades 4-8 and 11), science (grades 4, 8 and 11), and writing (grades 5, 8 and 11)?
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Is each individual student on a trajectory to reach proficient or advanced levels on a future PSSA reading, math, science, and writing assessment?
The following resources provide information on each of the data tools made available to districts by the Department. In addition, the Department has designed a blueprint to assist districts in utilizing these various data sources to make data-informed decisions.
By clicking on the following links, you will be directed to a new web page that will be targeted specifically to the topic in the header as described.
Introduction to PVAAS
The Introduction to PVAAS web page provides information for individuals who may be new to PVAAS, or for those individuals who may be in need of a refresher. The content focuses on introductory level materials, such as what is PVAAS?, and provides an informational video on PVAAS in Pennsylvania. In addition, the web page provides video clips and testimonials of educators across Pennsylvania discussing their experiences with PVAAS.
Implementation of PVAAS
The implementation of a new way of measuring student learning can be exciting and challenging. Implementation of PVAAS focuses on materials and resources to assist educators in the effective implementation of PVAAS in their district, and/or building. The materials and resources available on this page are targeted for a deeper level understanding of PVAAS and to assist in the implementation of PVAAS into the educational community within the district and/or building.
Integration of PVAAS
Congratulations - You have successfully implemented PVAAS! What’s next? Integration! The information provided on this web page will provide educators with valuable resources in the systemic integration of PVAAS within school improvement processes.
For additional assistance with PA Value-Added Assessment System (PVAAS) website, please contact LIU #13 at Phone: 717-606-1911 or by Email: pdepvaas@iu13.org.
