Dear RBUSD Community,

We are sometimes asked, "Why do we test (so much)?" Depending on your grade-level, it can feel like there are a lot of assessments. And, we know that testing can feel overwhelming. With the testing season approaching, you might be wondering why students take various assessments throughout the school year. This is a common question — and an important one! This newsletter will provide an overview of RBUSD assessments, explain how results enhance student learning, and help families use this information to track progress and set goals for future success.

Alta Vista students receive regional robotics award

Students receive academic recognition at RUHS during the PTSA Academic Letter Night

RUHS seniors celebrating College Sweatshirt Day last year

CAASPP - California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress

Students in grades 3–8 and 11 take the CAASPP annually to measure their mastery of state standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics. The California Science Test (CAST) is administered in grades 5, 8, and 10. These computer-based assessments are completed on Chromebooks under teacher supervision during a testing window from late March to June. Your school will communicate specific dates.

CAASPP results provide valuable insights that:

• Help families track progress and identify areas needing support
• Guide teachers in adjusting instruction and planning lessons
• Allow schools to identify learning trends and improve curriculum
• Show students their readiness for advancement and future opportunities

California Science Test (CAST)

The California Science Test (CAST), taken by students in grades 5, 8, and 10, measures proficiency in Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). It evaluates understanding across Earth and Space Science, Life Science, Physical Science, and engineering practices.

CAST results provide valuable feedback:

• Shows students their scientific strengths and growth areas
• Helps teachers identify concepts needing additional support and adjust instruction accordingly
• Enables schools to track progress and align science curriculum with student needs

Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

California students in grades 5, 7, and 9 take the Physical Fitness Test to measure overall fitness and health. The test evaluates five components: aerobic capacity, abdominal strength, trunk strength, upper body strength, and flexibility.

The PFT is important because it:

• Promotes lifelong healthy habits by emphasizing physical fitness
• Measures student performance against state and national standards
• Motivates students to improve fitness levels and set personal health goals

Adams Middle school students engage in various PE activities (above and below)

California Alternate Assessment (CAA) 

The California Alternate Assessments (CAA) are specialized CAASPP components for students with significant cognitive disabilities whose IEP teams have designated alternate assessments. These assessments evaluate students receiving instruction aligned with alternate achievement standards and include versions for ELA, mathematics, and science. CAA eligibility is required for the alternate diploma pathway.

The CAA uses real-life context performance tasks administered one-on-one by a trained test administrator familiar with the student, typically their teacher. Though computer-based, students may respond using methods appropriate to their communication abilities. The assessments include various embedded and non-embedded tools, supports, and accommodations as outlined in CDE CAA Resources.

Friendship Club baseball game with Adams students

Measure of Academic Progress (MAP Test)

The MAP test is a computer-adaptive assessment measuring student academic progress in reading and math. Used in grades K-11 throughout RBUSD, it helps teachers and schools track learning over time, enabling informed decisions about instruction and interventions to maximize each student's academic potential.

Why the MAP test is important:

Informs Instruction: Provides data that helps educators tailor teaching to individual student needs

Identifies Learning Gaps: Detects challenges early, allowing for targeted interventions before students fall behind

Tracks Student Growth: Monitors academic progress throughout the year, not just at year-end CAASPP testing

Helps Families and Students: Gives parents visibility into their child's progress and provides motivating feedback to students

Dr. Wesley reads to a Madison kinder class.

English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC) 

The ELPAC determines English language proficiency. Students with a home language survey listing a language other than English take the Initial ELPAC, which classifies them as either English learners (EL) or initially fluent English proficient (IFEP).

Students classified as EL take the annual Summative ELPAC, measuring progress in Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing domains until they meet reclassification criteria and become reclassified fluent English proficient (RFEP).

The Summative Alternate ELPAC serves EL students with significant cognitive disabilities whose IEP teams have designated alternate assessment. These students take this version annually until meeting reclassification criteria for RFEP status.

When combined with grades, classwork, and teacher observations, these assessment results give families and educators a comprehensive view of student learning progress. Like our instructional teams, you can use these insights to identify your child's strengths and areas needing support.

RBUSD analyzes data to measure growth across schools, grade levels, and subject areas, comparing our performance to local districts and state averages. This analysis informs our Strategic Plan goals, curriculum decisions, and professional development needs outlined in the LCAP. Schools use disaggregated data to create annual goals, form intervention groups, and connect with students needing additional support. Teachers reference this data when discussing your child's academic progress during family conversations.

Adams (above) and Parras (below) instructional leadership teams review school data

Here are a few testing study tips from our fantastic RBUSD teachers!

“My TOP TIP for students to establish good study habits is to use BODY DOUBLING. Body Doubling is a productivity technique where someone works alongside another person completing a task. The presence of another human increases calm engagement, focus, and motivation.” - Rachel Andrews, RUHS

“Know your learning style and strength (Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence)” - John Curtis, Patricia Dreizler Continuation High School

“Find the reason WHY you have to study for a certain topic! Sometimes when we find the ‘why’ we better absorb the ‘how’!” - Ali Daly, Tulita Elementary 

We encourage all students to give their best effort on the upcoming tests. The results help our staff gain a genuine understanding of individual student needs and strengths. By working together—students, families, and staff—we can demonstrate RBUSD’s excellence on measures like the CAASPP. Let's showcase our collective commitment to educational achievement and continue building a strong foundation for future success. These assessments are opportunities to show student growth and help provide the support needed to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Your Superintendent, 

Nikki Wesley, Ed.D.

Join the Journey!