Academics
College and Career
We value standardized testing (ACT Aspire, PSAT, ACT, AP tests) as one source that informs the school about individual student growth, the effectiveness of our curriculum and instruction, and readiness of our student body for college, career, and citizenship.
It is important to note that we are a mission-based and not a performance-based school, so we balance test results with several other measures of our students’ proficiencies and our effectiveness.
TESTING INFORMATION
| Test | Dates and Location | Grade Level(s) | Purpose and Summary | Cost |
| PSAT 8/9 PSAT 10 | April at LCS | 8-10 | The PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10 test what students learn in class and allow LCS to see the areas where students are on track for success in college and where they need additional support. Students will receive grade reports that help pinpoint the skills that need more attention and practice. | Free for LCS 8th – 10th graders |
| PSAT/NMSQT | October at LCS | 11 | The PSAT test is a preparatory SAT test that also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The PSAT tests students in English (Reading and Writing) and Mathematics. It helps students prepare for the SAT and provides information on how they compare academically to other 11th-grade students. | Free for LCS Juniors |
| NWEA – MAP Growth | Fall and Spring at LCS | K-10 (Grades 9 and 10 test in fall only) | MAP testing is provided to LCS school students in grades K-10. The test assesses students in Reading, Language Usage, and Mathematics. LCS uses the tests to help improve instruction and identify strengths and areas of improvement for individual students. | Free for LCS Families |
| SAT Schoolday | April at LCS | 11 | The SAT is used for college admission, scholarship eligibility, and placement in college courses. The test includes sections on Reading and Writing and Mathematics and allows LCS to see the areas where students are on track for success in college and where there is room for improvement. Most colleges will accept the ACT or SAT and many are test-optional. More information can be found at www.collegeboard.com. | Free for LCS Juniors |
| ACT | Various Dates at LCS – registration is through College Board | 11-12 | The ACT is used for college admission, scholarship eligibility, and placement in college courses. The test covers Reading, English, Science, and Mathematics with an optional Writing section. Most colleges will accept the ACT or SAT and many are test-optional. More information can be found at www.actstudent.org. | $68 without writing, $93 with writing |
| SAT weekend testing | Various Dates at LCS – registration is through College Board | 11-12 | The SAT is used for college admission, scholarship eligibility, and placement in college courses. The test covers Reading, Writing, Science, and Mathematics. Most colleges will accept the ACT or SAT and many are test-optional. More information can be found at www.collegeboard.com. | $60 |
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
The links below provide information and additional resources (financial aid calculators, forms, tips, and advice) for paying for college.
SCHOLARSHIP SEARCH TOOLS
The website links below provide information regarding paying for and preparing for college. Members are matched to relevant scholarship opportunities free of charge. There are scholarship matches for every student’s educational goals, activities and interests. Many of these resources also provide financial aid tips and advice on high school and college life.