Assessment/Accountability MCAS
Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System

Invitation to Serve on MEPA Assessment Development Committees in 2009-2010

Committee Members' Responsibilities

Assessment Development Committee members will assist the Department in the review of MEPA passages, test items, and scoring criteria. Responsibilities include reviewing MEPA items for:

• alignment with the Massachusetts English Language Proficiency Benchmarks and Outcomes for English Language Learners
• clarity and precision of language
• content accuracy
• developmental appropriateness
• instructional relevance

Committee members will review all MEPA test questions and make suggestions for refinements prior to field testing. After items have been field tested, committee members will review the items along with item performance data.

Membership Structure and Meeting Schedule

The membership term will extend from November 2009 through summer 2010. Each grade span committee will consist of approximately 10-12 educators. Committee members will be required to attend one two-day meeting and two one-day meetings, which are conducted from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day. Once selected, successful applicants will receive a calendar of meetings and will be asked to confirm their availability. The first meeting for all grade spans will take place in November 2009 at a site to be determined.

Reimbursement of Expenses

The Department will reimburse districts for actual substitute teacher costs up to $100 per day. Committee members will be reimbursed for mileage, and overnight lodging for members who live 70 or more miles from the meeting site. In addition, committee members will receive professional development points (PDPs) for their service.

Application Procedure

Applications must include the following three components:

1. Completed Application Form with superintendent's signed recommendation
2. Current résumé (including current course syllabi, if available)
3. Statement of interest: A brief statement (up to one page) that describes why the applicant wishes to serve as a MEPA ADC member and the training and experience that will enable the applicant to make a positive contribution

The deadline for receipt of applications is 5:00 p.m., May 29, 2009. Notification of selection will be sent to the applicant's home address by early July. Please see the attached application for further instructions. If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Malonson at

781-338-3625 or send an email to jmalonson@doe.mass.edu.

Enclosure:    MEPA ADC Member Application

Last Updated: May 14, 2009