Forward Exam Educator Involvement Opportunities

Overview

DPI is recruiting Wisconsin educators to participate in “New Item Review” in-person meetings for the Forward Exam. During the item review, Wisconsin educators will come together to review newly created Forward Exam questions for content, grade level appropriateness, alignment to correct standard, cultural inclusivity, and bias/sensitivity issues prior to placement on the exam.

New Item Review is an important step in the development of the Forward Exam. This is a great opportunity for educators to be a part of assessment development, provide valuable feedback, have detailed input about the items on the Forward Exam, and take knowledge back to your district about the process.

Eight applicants will be selected for each of the content areas (English language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science) and grade levels/spans. DPI is looking for a diverse group of educators from all over Wisconsin (including EL and special education teachers).

Participant Testimonials from the 2025 Item Review

“This was one of the greatest professional development opportunities I have experienced in my eight years as an educator. The discussions I had with fellow educators, accompanied by the knowledge that was disseminated concerning the testing process, was excellent. I enjoyed being in such a small, focused group-- full of amazing insights and ideas.”

“I think this is something every teacher should go through at least once. It gives you a better understanding of the process that goes into creating the Forward Exam.”

“This is quite possibly the best professional learning I’ve ever been involved in to better understand the connection between standards and assessment.”

“I appreciated the opportunity to be on the math item review committee. Being a Teacher for the Blind and Visually Impaired, I was able to contribute input through that lens for our students. It was a very rewarding experience.”

“I really enjoyed this process. I feel like it helped me as an educator because it showcased the importance and value of carefully written assessment questions. It helped me to gain clarity regarding the alignment of Forward questions to the standards. The facilitator in my room was terrific. Clear, on-task, professional, and inviting.”

“The four days I spent with my ELA review team were nothing short of enlightening and inspiring. It was an incredible experience to hear the opinions and experiences of educators from across the state. I have already recommended this experience to other educators.”

“This is a very valuable process to be a part of. I used my knowledge to support the team in reviewing test items, but I also learned a lot about Science Forward Exam that changed my thinking and future instruction of students. Thank you for the opportunity to participate, learn, and grow as an educator.”

Logistics

• The review will be an in-person meeting (travel required) that will take place in Pewaukee (7:30 am to 4:30 pm daily).
• Applicants must be available to participate ALL days of the content area/grade-level review meeting for which they apply.
• Applicants will be required to sign a Security and Non-Disclosure Agreement prior to participation.
• Overnight accommodations are available to committee members who qualify.
• Meals not provided at the meeting will be eligible for reimbursement.
• There will be reimbursement for mileage to and from the participant's home.
• Stipend of $150 per day for participation.

How to Apply

Two step application process:

1. Complete Educator Involvement Participation Application, and
2. Submit resume to osamail@dpi.wi.gov

Applications submitted without a resume submission will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed for participation in New Item Review. Deadline to apply is May 1, 2026.