Standardized testing will take place Nov. 12 – Nov. 16 for all students in grade 3 – 8. The ERB (Educational Records Bureau) has updated the test we use (The Comprehensive Testing Program V). We have taken this as an opportunity to switch to using the digital administration rather than paper administration. No more bubbling! Several schools in our area have made this transition successfully. Prior to the actual testing dates, we will hold a trial run so that students can familiarize themselves with the process and we can test our technology.
The digital version will be given to fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth graders. These are norm-referenced tests that measure objective knowledge, which is only a small portion of the educational process. They provide information to help teachers design instructional programs. The information is used to supplement, not replace, teacher judgment. Please note that we administer the tests in third grade, but the tests are not scored. We believe it is important to provide students with a practice year for standardized testing that replicates the upper-grade conditions of the testing experience for students. You will receive your student’s test results before February teacher conferences.
We strive to provide an environment for testing that is relaxed and conducive to concentration. No homework will be assigned during testing week. It is very important to make sure your child gets to school well-rested, well-fed, and on time, as testing will begin each day at 8:45 a.m. If your child needs special testing accommodations as recommended by a psychoeducational evaluation, your child’s teachers will reach out to you over the next two weeks to confirm the accommodations plan. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your child’s teachers. For any students who are absent for one or more days, we will make up tests on Nov. 27 – 29.
