Michael Muenks has been named director of Dynamic Learning Maps® (DLM®) alternate assessments. Designed for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities who cannot participate in general state assessments, even with accommodations, DLM assessments provide a way for students to demonstrate what they know and can do in English language arts, mathematics, and science.
DLM assessments help parents and educators set high academic expectations, inform instruction, and meet accountability requirements for reporting student achievement.
Muenks succeeds Meagan Karvonen, who has served as DLM director for more than 11 years and will continue supporting the program as senior advisor.
Karvonen has helped guide the DLM program from its first operational administration in 2015 to the development of its FY27–32 strategic plan. Under her direction, the program has grown into a strong, research-based assessment program supported by the collective efforts of ATLAS staff and state partners.
Muenks has been closely involved in guiding DLM alternate assessments for several years and has played a significant role in the program’s direction and relationships with state partners. As a former state assessment director, Muenks has a deep understanding of the issues that states face and is prepared to ensure the continuity of the program. As director, he will serve as a primary point of contact for external partnerships, engagement opportunities, and other inquiries related to the DLM program.
The transition formalizes responsibilities Muenks has carried out for several years while allowing Karvonen to focus more broadly on her role as director of ATLAS. As DLM senior advisor, Karvonen will continue to support the team’s implementation of the DLM FY27–32 Strategic Plan.