Recognizing there was no published assessment that accurately addressed the functioning level of our students; we drew from existing assessments and modified them to create the Carter Assessment Tool (CAT). The CAT is used to better assess our students functioning levels, to have an objective basis to develop meaningful goals, and a way to accurately report out progress.
After using the CAT, we realized some of our students’ needs were not being addressed. We decided to refine the CAT, creating the Pre-CAT to address fundamental skills that were not previously identified such as alertness, grasping, and reaching.
The staff at Carter School persevered in creating a user friendly data sheet that would be sensitive enough to capture our students’ progress. These data sheets are used to document and demonstrate progress on a formative basis and correlate with students’ IEP goals.
The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System- Alternative Assessment (MCAS-Alt) consists of a portfolio of specific materials collected annually by the teacher and student. Evidence for the portfolio may include work samples, instructional data, videotapes, and other supporting information. At the Carter School, we use assistive technology and designed activities making the standards accessible to our students. Each year, we submit student portfolios electronically.