Horizon Leadership Academy
In order to objectively assess student growth and achievement, we create learning environments that foster success for all learners as defined by the varying levels of ability within every classroom.Standardized assessments are administered three times per school year to measure student progress in the areas of English Language Arts, Math and Science.
While curriculum is standards based and clearly defines the learning objectives that drive daily instruction, assessment in the form of standardized tests enables educators to make informed decisions for each and every student.
At Horizon Leadership Academy, we place great value on fair, accurate, and consistent assessment. Our teachers utilize assessment data to make informed decisions about their instructional practices. To ensure a well-rounded education, our curriculum incorporates a variety of assessment methods, including science labs, history projects, engineering challenges, writing units, reading level assessments, musical performances, and many more. Horizon Leadership Academy teachers effectively incorporate technology to implement digital assessments that provide students with immediate feedback and teachers with organized assessment needed to make efficient instructional decisions.
For Grades 2th to 11th, we administer standard-based assessment tests (Midterm Exams) at the end of each quarter for Math, ELA, Social Studies, Science, and World Language courses. These exams focus on the learning standards covered during the marking period and aim to help students retain understandings of previously learned content. Teachers analyze Midterm Exam data to identify areas of strength and weakness of the class and students individually in an effort to make well-informed decisions moving forward. Data collected from these exams and other summative assessments drive the curriculum writing and revision process on an ongoing basis.
NWEA MAP tests are adaptive assessments used to measure students' academic growth and proficiency in math, reading, and language usage. At Horizon Leadership Academy, these tests are employed to evaluate students' progress over time, identify their strengths and areas needing improvement, and tailor instruction accordingly. The results from MAP tests help us make data-driven decisions, personalize learning experiences, and support students' academic development effectively. Students in grades K-8 take MAP tests 3 times per year.
Mathematics (Grades K-8)
Reading (Grades K-8)
Language Use (Grades 2-8)
Science (Grades 5-8)
Starting in eighth grade and upper school, students take either the PSAT 8/9, the PSAT, or the SAT. Our rigorous Math and Language Arts coursework, coupled with ongoing SAT preparation programs, ensures that Horizon Leadership Academy students are well-prepared for these high-stakes exams.
The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Test is a state-mandated assessment designed to evaluate a student's readiness for college-level coursework in reading, writing, and mathematics. It helps determine whether students can enroll directly in credit-bearing courses or require additional support to enhance their skills. The TSI ensures students are placed in courses that match their academic preparation, aiding in a successful transition to and performance in higher education. The test is essential for students planning to enroll in Texas public colleges and universities, and some private institutions may also use it as part of their academic assessments. We offer TSI tests to our 8th grade students and high schoolers.
When analyzed properly, standardized test results can be of tremendous value for student growth as well as program analysis and revision. Test data is used to determine a students’ current stage of development relative to grade level and peers, enabling teachers to challenge all students at the appropriate level which ensures continual growth and success.
Horizon Leadership Academy administration and staff utilize test data to assess the effectiveness of our programs and help answer questions like:
Are current programs of study enabling our teachers to bring the curriculum to life in an engaging yet highly rigorous manner?
Do our curricula and programs align with one another allowing teacher creativity and expertise to excite and motivate all students to strive for their maximum potential?
After exploring several schools, we are delighted with our experience at Horizon Leadership Academy. The school’s dedication to safety, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse extracurricular activities has been exceptional. With personalized attention through small class sizes and a supportive environment, Horizon Leadership Academy has delivered an outstanding educational journey for our children.
HLA Parent
