Assessment Learning Network


A Professional Learning Community

The Assessment Learning Network (ALN) is a professional learning community open to educators and policymakers committed to improving student learning through effective use of high-quality, balanced assessment systems. The goal of the ALN is to increase assessment literacy among professional educators and of those who make policy decisions regarding K-12 education. Through engagement and shared perspectives, this learning community invests in Michigan’s children and educators by using assessment to culti­vate capable learners.

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

ALN theme for 2026-27: Designing and Implementing Competency-Based Assessment Systems

  • September 30, 2026 – Foundations of Competency-Based Education, with Virgel Hammonds
  • November 11, 2026 – Formative Assessment as the Engine of Learning, with MAC leaders
  • January 27, 2027 – Rethinking Summative Assessment & Performance Assessment, with Karin Hess
  • March 16, 2027 – Grading, Reporting, and Demonstrating Learning, with Matt Townsley
  • May 5, 2027 — Practitioner Stories: Practice, Progress, and Possibility, featuring participant implementation stories

The ASSESSMENT LEARNING NETWORK is a unique concept that:

  • Is supported by the Michigan Assessment Consortium (MAC) and the Michigan Department of Education
  • Brings together the leadership from Michigan’s professional education associations, ISDs/ESAs, policy organizations, and more.
  • Offers regular engagements where diverse education leaders learn together about the power of assessment to support the development of our students, their educators and our state.

There are two ways to engage:

  • Participate in one or more ALN event to enrich your own assessment literacy.
  • Affiliate with us to promote assessment literacy among your colleagues, members, or constituents.

Learn More about what it means to AFFILIATE with ALN!  Review this Participant & Affiliate Information and the FAQ Document

Register: Purchase a Season Pass, or register for individual events. (Individual event registration available mid-May)

ALN Schedule 2026–2027 (available soon)

SCECHs will be offered for each session.

Learning Points

Learning Points are accurate, concise briefs that address current assessment topics.

 Learning Points

ALN Events




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Assessment Literacy Standards

The Assessment Literacy Standards are the foundation of all MAC professional learning opportunities. Download the standards publication or explore more about their purpose and use.

Assessment Literacy Standards