An Assessment Creator on the Power of Individuality in Learning and How Educational Journeys Unlock What’s Possible for Learners

March 22, 2021

Yoon Mee Byun, Associate Director of the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) and English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC) at ETS, describes the role educators play in cultivating the natural curiosity of their students, the importance of individualized learning and why education is a key factor in the pursuit of possibilities for learners. From the lessons she’s learned on her own educational journey and working with students as an assessment developer and administrator, Byun believes all learners have the ability to uncover their potential and become skilled and contributing members of society — no matter their racial, ethnic or economic backgrounds.

Having experienced opportunities in high-placement programs in school, Byun was able to utilize and master the skills her career in developing the skills of marginalized students through assessments requires. Spending the early years of her life tutoring English learners, she knows how instrumental it is to identify the needs of students and equip them based on their individual learning journeys. From overcoming obstacles as a first-generation Korean-American graduate to holding leadership positions in school organizations, the guidance and opportunities that educators provided along the way helped Byun shape her journey to what’s possible.