Dear BIS Families,

I hope this message finds you well and ready for the Chinese New Year celebrations!

This week, I would like to share some important information about MAP testing and how it supports both student learning and teacher development at BIS. Transparency and partnership with families are central to our work, and we want you to clearly understand how this data is used to help every student achieve their best possible outcomes.

Understanding MAP Testing at BIS

MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) assessments help us understand how students are progressing over time in key academic areas. Rather than being a one-time score or judgment, MAP data allows us to identify patterns and trends across year groups, classes, and subject areas.

MAP data is used to:

• Understand where students are thriving and where they may need additional support
• Inform classroom instruction and planning
• Guide professional development for teachers, ensuring training and coaching are targeted where they will have the greatest impact
• Support our long-term goal of helping every student reach their full potential

MAP Testing: A Visual Guide for Parents

2. Teachers Receive Clear Learning Data

MAP provides detailed insight into:

• Skills students have already mastered
• Skills they are ready to learn next
• Areas where additional support may be needed

3. Teachers Plan Targeted Instruction

Teachers use this information to:

• Adjust lessons to meet student needs
• Group students for targeted support or extension
• Focus teaching on the most important learning priorities

4. Professional Development Is Focused

School leaders analyze MAP trends across the school to:

• Identify strengths and areas for growth
• Design professional development and coaching for teachers
• Continuously improve teaching quality and consistency

5. Growth Is Tracked Over Time
Because MAP is administered more than once per year, we are able to measure growth, not just attainment. This ensures students are making progress from their individual starting points.

Upcoming Passion Projects

– EYFS & Year 1 & 2

We are also excited to share that Passion Projects will be launching soon in EYFS and Year 1. These projects allow our youngest learners to explore topics they genuinely love, while developing independence, communication skills, curiosity, and confidence.

More details will be shared shortly, and we look forward to celebrating the creativity and enthusiasm our students bring to this work.

Thank you, as always, for your continued trust and partnership with BIS. We look forward to connecting with many of you during Wednesday’s workshop.

Warm regards,

Michelle James