Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we approach the spring semester, we would like to inform you about the upcoming Smarter Balanced Assessments for Math and English Language Arts (ELA), as well as the Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science for our middle school students. These assessments are an important part of tracking your child’s academic progress and ensuring we continue to meet their educational needs.
Test Dates:
Smarter Balanced Assessments (Math and ELA): May 13, 15, 20, and 22
Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science: May 21 (8th grade only)
Attendance is Critical: Please plan ahead to ensure your child is present for testing. Absences during these dates can impact your child’s ability to participate and complete the tests. We ask that you avoid scheduling appointments or other activities that could interfere with testing.
Testing is Required: Participation in state testing is mandatory for all students. If, for any reason, you wish to opt your child out of the testing, we require a meeting with an administrator prior to April 4. Please note that opt-out requests will not be accepted without a prior meeting, and no opt-outs will be granted after the cut-off date.
How You Can Help: To support your child’s success, please encourage them to:
Get plenty of rest the night before each test.
Have a healthy breakfast to start the day energized.
Approach the tests with confidence and a positive mindset.
We appreciate your support in ensuring your child is prepared and present for these important assessments. If you have any questions, or if you need to schedule an opt-out meeting, please email us at pioneermsoffice@steilacoom.k12.wa.us before the April 4 deadline. Include your student's full name and grade when requesting a meeting.
Thank you for your cooperation and continued support!
Kristen Barton
Assistant Principal/SHSD Test Coordinator
