Why the M-STEP ?

Math and ELA M-Step have already happened or are currently underway at West Middle School. It is a huge test that all students take toward the end of their school year. The M-STEP stands for Michigan Student Test Educational Progress. We got a chance to interview a teacher at West Middle School, Mrs. Hedge. Mrs. Hedge concludes, “the reason that we have to take the M-STEP is so the state can make sure that teachers are actually teaching.” Mrs. Hedge is in charge of organizing, coordinating, helping teachers, and makeups for the M-STEP. Mrs. Hedge also thinks that the M-STEP is taking so long since we already take the NWEA.

We also got another chance to interview Cameron Laidlaw, a 7th-grade student at West Middle School. He thinks that the M-STEP should not exist. He tries his best on the test but does not think it will impact his future and his favorite part is the end of it. Cameron Laidlaw also says,“The M-STEP is not fun because the M-STEP has zero fun parts.” We think that the best part of the ELA M-Step is when you get funny articles about Legos.

The M-STEP is something that all middle schoolers in the state of Michigan have to take, regardless of whether they like it or not. We definitely agree with Mrs. Hedge that the M-STEP could be shorter, but it is not.   

Good luck on the M-STEP! Do your best, it will be over soon!