Overview of WKCE
The Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examination (WKCE) was customized to measure the Wisconsin Model Academic Standards (WMAS) and was developed and designed by the Department of Public Instruction and Wisconsin educators in conjunction with CTB/McGraw-Hill. This standardized test was composed of some items specifically designed for Wisconsin and some commercially developed questions used in schools across the country. Students in grades 4, 8, and 10 took tests in Reading, Mathematics, Language Arts/Writing, Science, and Social Studies. WKCE was administered to all students enrolled in grades 4, 8, and 10 in Wisconsin public schools during the fall of each school year.
Purpose of the WKCE
The WKCE provided information about student attainment of subject-area proficiency to students, parents, and teachers, and information to support curriculum and instructional planning. The WKCE was designed to meet the requirements of NCLB accountability goals and Wisconsin Statutes.
Grade Advancement
Beginning September 1, 2002, WKCE scores were used as one of several criteria for advancing students from fourth to fifth grade and from eighth to ninth grade. The other criteria were academic performance, teacher recommendations based on academic performance, and any other academic criteria specified by the local school board.