Encouraging students to do their best as state tests approach
The City School District of Albany, like public school districts throughout the state, is preparing for the spring 2018 state tests for students in grades 3-8. I am writing to remind you of the dates for the English Language Arts (ELA) and math exams, as well as the dates for the state science exams for students in grades 4 and 8.
This letter also provides information to help all students do their best (you can also download this letter in .pdf format).
- The state ELA exam was April 11-12
- Makeup days were: April 13, 16, 17, 18
- The state math exam will be May 1-2
- Makeup days: May 3, 4, 7, 8, 9
You also can follow these links to download helpful information from the State Education Department to help parents, guardians and students prepare:
Students in grades 4 and 8 also take statewide science test each year. The performance (lab) part of that exam will be given on one day determined by your building principal between May 23 and June 1. All students in grades 4 and 8 will take the written portion of the state science exam June 4.
As this year’s tests approach, please keep in mind that all of New York’s statewide exams are designed to measure how well students are mastering the learning standards that guide classroom instruction. The state’s goal is to help ensure that students are on track to graduate from high school with the critical-thinking, problem-solving and reasoning skills needed for success in today’s world.
No single test provides a complete picture of a child’s abilities. But when combined with grades, classroom activities, unit quizzes and tests, and district-level assessments such as NWEA, the annual state tests can provide important information about a child’s academic progress.
We encourage all of our students to do their very best on everything they do in school, including these annual state tests. You can support your child by making sure he or she gets plenty of sleep the night before each test, and starts the day with a healthy breakfast. Please visit our NYS Testing section for much more information and additional resources to assist you.
If you have any questions or concerns, please talk with your building principal.
Yours in education,
Kaweeda G. Adams
Superintendent of Schools
