Dear Families of 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders,
The US Department of Education has approved the waiver for Colorado’s standardized tests this spring. The CMAS tests provide valuable information for our schools and teachers, who use the data to understand where students are in their learning and tailor instruction accordingly. The district also uses these results to measure overall student academic progress and identify opportunities for improvement. In addition to CMAS tests, the district also uses NWEA MAPS tests. These tests are typically 1 hour for math and 1 hour for reading. We will administer these NWEA tests close to the end of the year in May.
Some CMAS tests will still be required, some will be optional, and some will not be administered at all.
|
Grade Level |
Required |
Non-required |
Not available |
|
3 |
ELA (reading and writing) |
Math |
N/A |
|
4 |
Math |
ELA |
Social Studies |
|
5 |
ELA |
Math |
Science |
Our CMAS schedule is as follows in the months of April and May:
|
AM: 10:00 – 12:30 |
20 5th: ELA 1 |
21 5th: ELA 2 |
22 5th: ELA 3 |
23 Make ups |
|
26 AM: 4th: 9:00 – 11:45 PM: 3rd: 1:00 – 3:30 |
27 4th: Math 1 3rd: ELA 1 |
28 4th: Math 2 3rd: ELA 2 |
29 4th: Math 3 3rd: ELA 3 |
30 Make ups |
|
May 3 Make ups & non-required |
4 Make ups & non-required |
5 Make ups & non-required |
6 Make ups & non-required |
7 Make ups & non-required |
|
10 Make ups |
11 Make ups |
12 Make ups |
13 Make ups |
14 Make ups
|
Families have the option to “opt in” to the non-required assessments. Families might choose this option if they are seeking more information on how the pandemic impacted their child’s learning. Some families may also opt in so that they have more information to determine eligibility for special programs. If you choose to “opt in” to additional tests, your child will likely miss some classroom instruction (teachers will keep kids caught up). Please be sure to opt in by April 9 so that we can organize the testing groups.
Although standardized testing is not necessarily fun, it does provide teachers with some useful information. We have talked about a couple good reasons to appreciate CMAS:
- Reduced homework during testing weeks!
- Chewing gum during the test
- Recess/break after each test
- The tests do not affect grades
- Good practice for important tests later in life (ACT/SAT, etc.)
- Demonstrate the great learning that goes on at O’Dea
Finally, and most important:
- A chance to do your best and show what you know!
Here are a couple tips to help make sure your kids do their best on their tests:
Go to bed early — we recommend by 9:00 at the latest.
Wake up on time – that will avoid extra stress and help them start out the day on the right foot.
Get to school on time – do not use energy being rushed, use your energy to think.
Eat a good breakfast – eggs, fruits, oatmeal, granola bars, etc. are good. PopTarts, donuts, and sugar cereals do not provide lasting energy, but are better than hunger.
Wear comfortable clothes – so you can use your energy to focus on the test.
Remind them to do their best – but to not stress out.
- Boost their confidence – leave them with encouraging words and support. They really will do well!
Families also have the option to opt out of the required assessments. Families may choose this option if they feel there is just too much testing. If you choose to opt out of all assessments, it is important that you keep your child home for the assessment period (pick up after lunch for 3rd graders, arrive at lunchtime for 4th and 5th graders) as there are no places or staff members for supervision. All tardies, early pickups, and absences due to opting out will be excused.
To “opt in” by April 9 or opt out, please use ParentVUE Services Tracker to mark your preferences. Call Rene in the front office at 488-4450 for help with ParentVUE.
For more information about state assessments, visit the Colorado Department of Education website here or visit the PSD District and State Assessments web page.
Remember, if you are going to opt in to please do so by April 9.
Please call or email with any questions you have about the CMAS assessments.
Thank you for your support!
Ryan Joyal
Assistant Principal
(970) 488-4457