The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs) and the alternate assessment, the Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS), are statewide assessments that help districts measure student progress toward Minnesota's academic standards and meet the requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Both the MCAs and the MTAS assess students in reading, mathematics and science. Most students take the MCAs, but students who receive special education services and meet eligibility criteria may take the MTAS.