At Granada Day School, we use Renaissance Star Early Literacy to track how the VPK students are growing in essential early literacy skills. This short, computer-based test gives teachers quick and accurate information—without taking away from valuable classroom learning time.
What is Star Early Literacy?
Star Early Literacy is a short (usually under 15 minutes) adaptive test, meaning the questions adjust to your child’s answers. If your child answers correctly, the next one may be harder. If they miss a question, the test gives an easier one. This helps teachers see exactly what your child knows and what they are ready to learn next.
Testing is done individually on a computer device, in a private setting away from distractions, so each child can focus and do their best.
Why do we use it?
Teachers use the results to:
- Track your child’s progress across the year
- See what skills your child has mastered
- Identify areas where extra support may be needed
- Plan lessons that match your child’s learning needs
How does Star Early Literacy help my child?
Because the test is quick and personalized, teachers get the right information without wasting learning time. This means more focus on helping your child grow at their own pace. And don’t worry—your child cannot fail the test.
As long as they try their best, the results give us what we need to guide their learning.
When will my child take the test?
VPK students will complete Star Early Literacy three times during the year:
- Progress Monitoring 1 (PM1): Aug. 15 – Sept. 30, 2025
- Progress Monitoring 2 (PM2): Dec. 1, 2025 – Jan. 15, 2026
- Progress Monitoring 3 (PM3): Apr. 15 – May 31, 2026
This helps us track growth and celebrate progress throughout the school year.
What will I see on the Parent Report?
After each test, you’ll receive a Star Parent Report to review and sign. It includes four key pieces of information:
- Scaled Score – Your child’s overall achievement on a common scale.
- Percentile Rank – Compares your child’s performance to students nationwide in the same grade.
- Grade Equivalent – An estimate of the grade level and month where your child’s score matches the average.
- Normal Curve Equivalent (NCE) – Another way to measure growth over time.
These scores help you and your child’s teacher see progress clearly and work together to support learning.
How can I help my child?
The best support is encouragement! Remind your child that:
- The test helps their teacher know how to teach them best.
- It’s not about passing or failing—just about trying their best.
- The test is short, and they’ll be back to learning and playing quickly.
Questions?
If you have any concerns, please reach out to your child’s teacher.
For VPK families only, the Star Early Literacy assessment is also part of the Florida FAST program. Parents with FAST-related questions may contact the Early Learning Coalition (ELC) directly by emailing VPKFAST@del.fldoe.org.
Together, we can make sure your child is on track and thriving in their learning journey!