Student Handbook - Standardized Testing
Throughout their education, students will take selected standardized tests. A standardized test is one that is administered under uniform and controlled conditions. This ensures that any difference in scores (pre and post-results, between students, etc.) reflect differences in knowledge and skills, rather than differences in unrelated factors such as test conditions. These tests are one of many ways educators assess what students know and can do. This can include paper-based or computer-based testing, oral and written tasks, classroom observations and portfolios of student work. These measures are used to monitor progress, refine instructional practices and improve our capacity to ensure that all students reach and exceed grade level expectations and graduate from the Worcester Public Schools career and/or college ready. Students whose caregivers opt them out of state standardized assessments will not be academically penalized or face disciplinary action except as prohibited by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or by the United States.
For Information on Testing
For questions or concerns related to testing procedures and security or for information on your child’s performance or participation in testing, please contact your child’s principal or teacher. For general questions about assessment or for questions or concerns related to testing procedures and security or for information on your child’s performance or participation in testing in the Worcester Public Schools, please contact the Office of Research and Accountability (508) 799-3592. You may also visit the Worcester Public Schools website for information on testing. Information from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education concerning state assessments can be found online or by contacting the State Office of Student Assessment at (781) 338-3625. Caregivers may also visit the Worcester Public Schools website for information on testing.