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The following message is from Montessori Magnet School Principal John Powell:

Dear Families:

The New York State Education Department has identified a plan for full implementation of computer-based testing (CBT) statewide for all students in grades 3-8. The state’s transition to CBT is part of its commitment to both meeting the needs of 21-century learners and improving test delivery, test integrity, scoring validity and turn-around time on testing results. 

The transition to computer-based testing will begin with mandated participation in the spring of 2024, when all students in grades 5 and 8 will be required to take English Language Arts, Math and Science tests via CBT. The state’s plan calls for phased, mandated participation for all students in grades 3-8 by the 2025-26 school year.

This school year, we are taking a proactive first step along this transitional path. Students in fourth grade will participate in computer-based testing for ELA in April. In the coming weeks and months leading up to the spring administration of computer-based tests, our fourth-grade students will engage in guided practice sessions to ensure that they are comfortable with the tools and platform used to deliver the CBT experience. Teachers will develop and implement learning opportunities to help prepare students for this shift in the state’s testing format.

Additionally, students will participate in a brief practice test session on Friday, Jan. 20. This session will be an opportunity for students, teachers and administrators to gain additional exposure to CBT.

This practice session is of no academic consequence for students but will provide the district with an opportunity to ensure that all necessary technology and connectivity is in place and functioning as needed. It also will provide valuable experience for our students, and for all teachers and staff involved in the administration of CBT. We fully expect to learn more about the process and potential areas of focus.

Change can be challenging, but teachers, instructional content supervisors and technology specialists all will be part of the support system for this transition. I am confident our teachers are making the necessary adjustments to ensure our fourth-graders will be prepared in April to take the state ELA exam via CBT. 

If you are interested in reviewing computer-based testing sample questions, please . You also can for more information about the state tests.

Please contact me if you have any questions about computer-based testing or the annual state exams.