Advanced Program Entry

Alternative Learning Program for Students (ALPS)

 Selection Guidelines
In identifying and selecting students for the Alternative Learning Program for Students (ALPS), Northville Public Schools uses student assessment data from multiple sources. Both achievement and ability test data are considered. Admission criteria has been developed to provide for the best possible match between the students’ abilities and the demands of the program.

Students in Grades 2, 3 and 4
Students will go through a two-step screening process.

• The first step considers students who score in the 97%ile range on a series of NWEA MAP reading and math tests. Grade 3 and 4 students are also given consideration for scoring at the Advanced level in both reading and math on the current MEAP test. These students will receive a letter inviting them to take the ability test.
• Parents of students who do not receive an invitation to take the ability test by March 21, 2013, may complete and submit the ALPS Parent Appeal Form  no later than March 29 if the student has met the following conditions 

 90%ile or above on a series of NWEA MAP Reading and Math tests (students in Grades 2 and 3)

 Advanced level in both Reading and Math on the current MEAP test (Students in Grade 3)

Parents will be notified whether or not the scores qualify the student for further testing.

• Students who meet the criteria will be scheduled to take a nationally standardized ability test administered by Northville Public Schools on Wednesday and Thursday, April 10 and 11, 2013 at Hillside Middle School from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Parents must provide transportation to and from the test site. This test can only be taken once within a year’s time.

For reasons of test security, we do not release any information regarding the form, level or version of the test given, nor do we make available any sort of practice or sample tests.

• Following the ability testing, the Advanced Program Screening Committee will meet to determine students who qualify, based on the following:

 NWEA MAP reading and math scores
 MEAP reading and math scores (if student was tested)
 Ability test score
 Report card grades
 Diagnostic Reading Assessment (DRA) score

To make the selection process as equitable and fair as possible, all students are compared on the basis of current scores on the same tests. Scores on other tests are not accepted.

• All current NPS students who qualify will be invited to the ALPS program. Parents will be notified via mail within two weeks following the testing. Additional open spaces will be determined after the April screening is complete.
• Space permitting, parents of students new to the district must submit achievement data and complete the ALPS Parent Summer Testing Request Form  no later than June 7, 2013. Ability testing will take place on Monday and Tuesday, June 17 and 18, 2013. The Screening Committee will then meet to determine students who qualify, and decision letters will be sent to parents of all students tested by mid-July.