State Tests
State test season is on the horizon! Grades 3 - 6 will be participating in the annual NYS assessments starting on April 1 for ELA and May 1 for Math. We are excited to share that students in our District will be participating in the online testing format for both ELA and Math.
We are equally pleased to share that the changes made last year at the State level to improve the Grades 3-8 English and Math tests, have remained in effect. These positive changes came about because the Commissioner and State Education Department listened to parents and educators. Here are the facts:
- Tests are shorter - only 2 sessions instead of 3
- Tests are not timed
- Test scores do not affect teacher evaluation scores
- Standards were developed with educators
- A majority of test questions will be released so teachers can use them in the future
- More teachers and administrators have been involved in the test design
Additional information that is important to know: Federal legislation known as the "Every Student Succeeds Act” mandates a 95% participation rate on each of these tests. This means that unless 95% of our students take the state tests, our school and district will not be considered to be making adequate student achievement progress. Since these tests are a measure of what your child has learned, I’m asking you to please have your child participate.
Participation in NYS testing:
- Provides an opportunity for students to show what they know.
- Provides students with test taking experiences that they will need in later years and in life.
- Allows our district to show student achievement progress.
- Provides information to our district regarding potential changes needed in curriculum or instruction.
Thank you for your support!
Tips for Successful Testing
As a school, we express confidence in children's ability, while always encouraging them to do their best work. We work hard to not place an over emphasis on state testing. We are proud of the work we do every day with our students and the gains that they make throughout a school year. We encourage students to look at the state tests as an opportunity to show us what they know.
You can further support this at home by taking a low-key approach to state testing. Keep your home schedules consistent, maintain your confidence in your child's ability, and make sure he or she is well-rested. By working together, we can make the testing experience a positive one for your child. Thank you for your assistance.
