Homelessness in the Chicago Public School System

A growing number of students in Chicago are currently struggling with having a permanent and stable home. As of December 2022, 13,000 CPS students identified as homeless, according to CPS’s “Students in Temporary Living Situations” program. However, according to the Chicago Coalition of Homelessness, due to some students not wanting to identify themselves and others being homeless but living in other students’ homes, this number is actually closer to 16,000. Notably, many students in these types of situations don’t qualify for public aid.

There have been many attempts to curtail this rise, to varying degrees of success. Tonti Elementary set up a “Care Closet” to have a place to keep donations from the community and charity organizations for students in need, and provides incoming students with free uniforms and a backpack stuffed with school supplies. 

The American Rescue Plan of 2021 raised the child tax credit to $3600 per child from $2000. Governor Pritzker also made a proposal in February of 2023 to raise the budget for homelessness prevention, increasing the funding that goes into Illinois’s Evidence-Based Funding program that awards funds to schools based on priority of need. The Chicago Teacher’s Union stated that the increases were insufficient, and stated that at least double the proposed amount would be necessary to make the changes necessary. The state budget should be finalized by May of 2023 when the spring legislative session closes.

Nate Hall, Director of Technology & Tutoring Coordinator
nate@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

Low Reading and Math Proficiency in CPS Schools

While CPS reported a record-breaking graduation rate in 2022, reading and math proficiency rates for students are a cause for concern, with only one fifth of high schoolers completing the subjects to a grade-level standard. These low proficiency rates have significant implications for students' future success, as they may struggle to keep up with coursework in higher grades or pursue advanced education or career opportunities.

According to 2022 data from the Illinois Department of Education, 55 schools reported zero students that were proficient in either math or reading. The causes of low proficiency rates in the Chicago Public School system are complex, but many attribute the decline to negative effects of the pandemic, including school closures and remote learning. However, proficiency numbers are only slightly lower than they were in 2019, so pandemic consequences only represent part of the picture. Other factors, such as growing levels of homelessness among CPS students, are also important to understand.

Efforts to improve proficiency rates in the Chicago Public School system are ongoing, with educators and administrators working to implement targeted interventions and programs aimed at supporting struggling students and improving academic outcomes. However, addressing the root causes of low proficiency rates will require a sustained and coordinated effort from stakeholders across the district and the broader community, including policymakers, community organizations, and families.

Anna Jordan, Tutoring Coordinator
anna@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

The Classical Learning Test Replacing SAT/ACT in Florida?

The SAT and ACT may soon be replaced by the Classical Learning Test in the state of Florida. Primarily used by home-school and private-school students, the CLT is a standardized test steeped in “traditional” education values. School board officials from the state claim the new test contains more challenging material than the SAT and is fitter to uphold the democratic principles of America. As Governor Ron DeSantis searches for alternatives to the College Board’s standardized tests, individuals from the Department of Education are pushing for the implementation of the CLT.

Created in 2015 as a way to disengage from modern education standards, the CLT diverges from the SAT and ACT in ideology. While the College Board recognizes critical race theory as a foundational tenet of education, the CLT takes a conservative approach to this topic with regard to religious values. Chad Pecknold, a member of the CLT’s establishing board stated that it is “an alternative to the College Board that orients people to the perennial truths of the great classical and Christian tradition.” Other Florida Education officials claim that the SAT has “censored” ideals of the Christian faith and thus claim that an alternative test must be implemented.

Currently, the SAT and ACT are the only standardized tests recognized by collegiate institutions in Florida. However, if new legislation is passed the CLT will be available to all eleventh and twelfth-grade students who wish to forgo taking a College Board exam. As of now, Governor DeSantis has not confirmed the state’s switch. Still, Florida education officials are pushing for the addition of the new test, making it likely that the CLT will be recognized as a legal college entrance exam alternative in the coming years.

Kayley Horton, Tutoring Coordinator
kayley@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

Sources:

https://www.businessinsider.com/florida-sat-college-board-alternative-classical-christian-desantis-western-thought-2023-2
https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2023/02/19/florida-weighs-classical-and-christian-alternative-to-sat-college-entrance-exam/
https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/2023/02/17/desantis-classical-learning-test-college-board-ap-sat/

ACT vs. SAT : Do Colleges Prefer One Over the Other?

The short answer to the question above is no. As of 2023, all colleges that consider standardized test scores as part of their admissions processes will take SAT or ACT scores at an equal value. 

This myth has persisted primarily because of the fact that a lot of states mandate that their high schoolers take either the SAT or ACT during the school day. CPS students take the SAT at their schools in April. Just north in Wisconsin, the ACT is mandated, so it varies state to state. Additionally, about half of incoming college freshmen attend colleges that are within 100 miles of their hometowns. As a result, colleges tend to receive a majority of test scores from the test that their state mandates that students take in high school (i.e. the SAT for Illinois students). Not all states mandate the SAT or ACT, but each state often leans one way or the other.

All of that being said, these state mandates and local tendencies do not affect how colleges consider either test, and students should just take whichever test they feel most confident. Students may also take both tests, but should consider the extra preparation time, stress, and testing fees that would be involved.

Check out our article ‘What's the Difference Between the SAT and the ACT?’ from November, 2022 to see which test is right for you!

Nate Hall, Director of Technology & Tutoring Coordinator
nate@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

Chat GPT

As technology evolves, it has become nearly impossible to discern artificial intelligence from authentic human work. This presents a particular problem for educators as students are more likely than ever to use technology in lieu of completing their own schoolwork. Chat GPT is an artificial intelligence program at the forefront of this issue. Educators are wary of this AI because it is available widely and has the ability to answer questions, write essays, and even code effectively.

However, while Chat GPT is often effective it is not foolproof. After testing its limits, Zurich-based data scientist Teresa Kubacka found that when presented with misinformation Chat GPT had no ability to determine inauthenticity. After asking the AI to write about a made-up phenomenon, Chat GPT went on to produce a work of equal nonsensical value, citing nonexistent sources and falsifying publications. This is yet another reason educators are trying to quell the spread of misinformation and safeguard students against academic dishonesty.

To disrupt the onslaught of AI-centered cheating, schools have taken measures to minimize student exposure to this technology. Recently, New York City schools have banned access to Chat GPT on all school-operated networks and computers. Seattle schools have also restricted access to Chat GPT as well as other websites used to forge classwork. In addition, many schools have also gone to lengths to invest in technology that is able to recognize AI-generated work. It is hoped that these changes will promote academic integrity by discouraging students from presenting AI-generated work as their own.

Kayley Horton, Tutoring Coordinator
kayley@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

Sources:

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/12/technology/chatgpt-schools-teachers.html
https://www.npr.org/2022/12/19/1143912956/chatgpt-ai-chatbot-homework-academia
https://apnews.com/article/what-is-chat-gpt-ac4967a4fb41fda31c4d27f015e32660

What to Bring to the SAT

When you take the SAT, there are a few things you'll need to bring with you. See below for a list of what not to forget on your test day!

• Printed Admissions Ticket

• When you register to take the SAT, you will receive an admissions ticket for your specific testing location. You’ll need to bring a printed copy of this ticket with you to the testing center - before printing, double check to make sure the location hasn’t changed!

• Photo ID

• Accepted photo identification must be the original version of an ID issued by the government or by the school which you currently attend. The name on the ID must match the name on your registration.

• Two No. 2 Pencils

• It can’t hurt to have a spare - and make sure they have working erasers!

• An Approved Calculator

• You can use a calculator on the Math Test - Calculator section! Accepted calculators include all scientific calculators, most graphing calculators, and four-function calculators (although these are not recommended due to their simplicity). Note that you may not share calculators with others.

• Face Covering

• Make sure you check the masking requirements for your specific testing location, and bring along a face covering just in case.

• A Watch

• While not required, it can be helpful to bring a watch with you to the test, so that you can more effectively pace yourself. Smart watches will not be allowed - the simpler the better! Also, be sure to make sure your watch doesn’t have an alarm set.

• Water Bottle and Snacks

• For most students, there will be one 10-minute break and one 5-minute break during the test. You won’t be able to use your phones, but you will be able to take a drink and have a quick snack!

Anna Jordan, Tutoring Coordinator
anna@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

The SAT Changing to a Digital Format in 2024

To adjust to the changing landscape of standardized testing, in 2024 the College Board will be offering the SAT digitally to students in the United States. Covid-19 and other factors caused a decreased demand for SAT scores by colleges causing many high schools to forego in-school SAT testing. Because of this, students have less access to and incentive to take the SAT than ever before. To support students’ changing needs, College Board has adapted the SAT to an improved digital format. They believe this change will increase student interest and make the test more relevant to student needs.

According to Priscilla Rodriguez of College Board, “the digital SAT will be much easier to take, easier to give, and more relevant.” Rodriguez claims this testing format will benefit students as it is similar to the online tests they’ve seen in school. The digital SAT will be adaptive, meaning questions will vary based on student answers. The efficiency of adaptive testing means that students will spend around two hours taking the test digitally as opposed to three hours with the previous manual version. Other changes include shorter reading passages and access to calculators for the entirety of the math section.

To take the SAT digitally, students will meet at a testing location where the test can be monitored. Students may use their own computers. However, if a student does not have access to a computer, one will be provided to them for the duration of the test. Students will no longer need extraneous materials such as writing utensils and calculators. Therefore, lack of access to these materials will no longer be an issue. In addition, digital SAT scores will now be available just days after testing as opposed to several weeks with the hand-written version. The College Board believes these adjustments will benefit students by modernizing the standard SAT format.

Kayley Horton, Tutoring Coordinator
kayley@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

Loss of Learning

Since 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic has caused a drastic decrease in academic achievement for students across the country. Both educationally and emotionally, over half of K-12 public school teachers admit that students have suffered greatly since the beginning of the pandemic. According to the Department of Education, only 26% of 8th graders are proficient in math compared to 34% proficiency of 8th graders in 2019. In addition, only 33% of fourth graders have achieved proficiency in math-- another dramatic decrease in performance. Experts in the education field believe that this is due to many factors that have resulted from the pandemic. Illness, isolation, remote learning, and anxiety are some of the leading issues students continue to face.

Among those affected, high-poverty areas have suffered the most in terms of educational decline. Sean Reardon, an education professor at Stanford states, “When you have a massive crisis, the worst effects end up being felt by the people with the least resources.” In some of the poorest communities such as that of Memphis, Tennessee, students lost over a year’s worth of progress in math and 70% of a year’s worth of progress in reading. Poverty and time spent learning remotely have proven to be two of the leading factors in students’ loss of learning.

To address these mounting issues, schools have put some strategies into effect. Many schools have added staff such as teacher’s aides to their classrooms, offered tutoring options, and created summer programs for student enrichment. Additionally, most schools have invested in technology in order to make remote learning as effective as possible. Nationally, school systems have spent over $190 million dollars in federal aid to promote academic recovery for students. Still, many educators feel these modifications are insufficient to meet the needs of struggling students, especially in economically disadvantaged school districts. Though adjustments have been made to minimize the effects of the pandemic, schools still struggle to fill positions and keep students engaged in the classroom.

Kayley Horton, Tutoring Coordinator
kayley@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

Sources:

https://www.nbcnews.com/now/video/education-leaders-advise-how-to-aid-pandemic-learning-loss-159290949539

https://www.cnbc.com/2021/03/30/learning-loss-from-virtual-school-due-to-covid-is-significant-.html
 
https://www.usnews.com/news/us/articles/2022-10-28/massive-learning-setbacks-show-covids-sweeping-toll-on-kids#:~:text=The%20analysis%20found%20the%20average,double%20those%20amounts%2C%20or%20worse.

An Overview of the PSAT

The PSAT is a test taken in a student’s sophomore or junior year, and is typically seen as a trial run for the SAT. The sections are the same on the PSAT as the SAT: evidence-based reading, writing and language, math (no calculator), and math (calculator). Thus, a student’s score on the PSAT is a helpful indicator of where to best focus efforts when preparing for the SAT. Additionally, a PSAT score can give students an idea of how close they are to the average SAT score of their target colleges and universities.

While colleges do not take into account PSAT scores, it’s more than simply a practice test. It also serves as the qualifying test for National Merit Scholarships. Every year, around 50,000 students will qualify for recognition based on their PSAT scores - a distinction which can be included in a college application. Of these students, around 8000 finalists will win scholarship money to be used towards their higher education.

Overall, while students shouldn’t stress about the PSAT, it should be seen as a chance to practice standardized test-taking, a helpful tool to focus SAT prep, and a chance to apply for a National Merit Scholarship.

Anna Jordan, Tutoring Coordinator
anna@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266

SAT Deadlines and Potential Fees

The College Board sets several deadlines for each SAT testing date that parents should account for in their test preparations. The test dates below are the remaining dates for the 2022-23 school year, but more will be confirmed in the fall as well. There are usually seven or so test dates in every calendar year.

• March 11th, 2023

• Registration Deadline: February 10th, 2023

• Change, Late Registration, and Cancellation Deadline: February 28th, 2023

• May 6th, 2023

• Registration Deadline: April 7th, 2023

• Change, Late Registration, and Cancellation Deadline: April 25th, 2023

• June 3rd, 2023

• Registration Deadline: June 3rd, 2023

• Change, Late Registration, and Cancellation Deadline: May 23rd, 2023

Registering for the SAT costs $60 per test. Note that any changes in registration will incur a $25 fee, and any late registrations incur a $30 fee. Canceling your registration will result in a $25 fee if you do so before the cancellation deadline, or a $35 fee if you do so after.

The College Board also provides some other testing-related services for additional fees, including providing four score reports free of charge if requested within 9 days of the test date ($12 for every report beyond that), rush report shipping ($31 plus the additional report fee), scores by phone ($15 per call), and hand scoring your test results ($55).

There is also a fee waiver program that students may apply for. If eligible, students can take 2 tests for free, and access most testing services at a significant discount. Change fees and rush score fees will still apply. You can check eligibility requirements here, but the primary requirement is falling under the federal poverty guidelines set by the USDA (based on the size of your household.

Nate Hall, Director of Technology & Tutoring Coordinator
nate@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266