Frequent, Low-Stakes
Formative Assessments

TL;DR

Frequent, low-stakes quizzes and check-ins let educators see exactly where students need help. Portland Public Schools can unify these mini-assessments so no child’s confusion goes unnoticed. A five-minute quiz can save months of frustration by catching gaps early. If PPS adopts regular, low-pressure assessments across all schools, students will get the help they need right when needed. ⏳

What are frequent, low-stakes formative assessments?

They are short, regular check-ins (like exit tickets or short quizzes) used to spot misunderstandings in math, reading, or other subjects before they grow into bigger problems. Instead of waiting for big tests, teachers get real-time insights into which students need more support.

Why do they matter for Portland?

In Portland, student needs vary widely from one neighborhood to another. Quick assessments help every teacher in every PPS school see who is falling behind and respond immediately, reducing the achievement gap across the city.

How do they improve learning?

Research from the Institute of Education Sciences shows frequent, low-pressure quizzes improve outcomes because teachers adapt their lessons as soon as they see students struggling. Students also feel less stress than they do with big exams, which makes them more likely to participate.

How can PPS implement this affordably?

  • Use simple paper slips or online forms for quick exit tickets at the end of class.

  • Dedicate weekly teacher collaboration time to discuss results and plan targeted help.

  • Give brief training so teachers can analyze the data and adjust their lessons.

  • Provide a consistent district guideline that encourages weekly or twice-weekly check-ins in math and reading.

What has PPS done so far?

Some teachers already do small quizzes or exit tickets, but the district has no unified policy. Without clear standards, these efforts vary from school to school, and there is no guarantee that the data is used effectively.

What is the main challenge?

Teachers worry about cramming extra quizzes into busy schedules and may not feel comfortable analyzing the results independently. PPS must provide simple guidelines and training so staff do not feel overwhelmed.

What actions will PPS take under this proposal?

✅ Establish a clear, district-wide routine: at least one quick weekly check-in in core subjects.

✅ Offer a short professional development session on creating, reviewing, and acting on these assessments.

✅ Make sure principals track implementation and follow up with teachers who need more support.

✅ Provide a simple reporting system, even if it is just a spreadsheet or a shared folder, so results are easy to see and share.

When Will PPS Do This?

Immediately.