Florida Statewide Assessments

• When returning manipulatives, ensure these are sent back to FIMC-VI using the enclosed FedEx label (these are not returned via UPS to DRC).
• For an overview about the process related to braille manipulatives, see Guide for Administering Braille Versions of Statewide Assessments with Manipulatives.
• For test-specific information related to braille manipulatives, test administrators can reference the Braille Notes included in the front of each braille test volume.
• If you have questions, please contact Kathy Kremplewski (FIMC-VI), Karen Reno (FIMC-VI), or Leeann Eldredge (FDOE).

Webinar Series Registration

26-27 Introduction to Statewide Assessments

From big picture to fine details: This webinar is a one-stop shop for all statewide assessments with a deep dive into general education assessments. Participants will learn how to successfully prepare for administering statewide assessments, including required materials, advance planning, accommodations, manipulatives, ordering processes, and upcoming changes.

August 18th

2:00-3:30pm EST

26-27 Computer-Based Testing Braille Access (CBTBA)

Participants will explore everything needed for CBTBA success including hardware/software setup, materials needed, item types, technology requirements, and student preparation.

September 29th

2:00-3:30pm EST

2027 Florida Alternate Assessment—Performance Task (FAA—PT)

This webinar supports teachers involved in FAA–PT administration, focusing on Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments responsibilities, braille delivery, and overall testing guidance. Note: This session supplements but does not replace required district trainings.

November 5th

2:00-3:30pm EST

26-27 Statewide Assessment Updates & Reminders

If you support students with visual impairments during statewide assessments, this webinar is a must so join live or catch the recording! Attend this webinar for an in-depth look at important updates and testing reminders for the Spring administration. Attendees will also receive the latest information on upcoming changes for the FAA–Performance Task.

February 2nd

2:00-3:30pm EST

• Teachers, use this time to get technology set up for your students to experience CBTBA!
• All students, regardless of grade level, can access these items to begin exploring CBTBA.
• Students can access the items on a Windows computer using JAWS, a RBD (refreshable braille display), EOD* (Emboss On Demand) files, or a combination of these methods.
• Be sure JAWS is installed on the Windows computer the student will use during the session.
• Launch JAWS software prior to launching the Secure Browser.
• For sample items, students will need to log in with their test ticket and a Sample Items Session-ID instead of using a guest id and guest session.

*EOD files require a ViewPlus Rogue embosser and accompanying software.

Contact Tori Short to request hardware and software today!

• Be sure ZoomText is installed on the computer the student will use during the assessment.
• Your DAC must submit a form to FDOE to grant access to ZoomText.
• The ZoomText accommodation will be turned on by FDOE at the state level for the student in TIDE.
• Launch the ZoomText software prior to launching the Secure Browser.
• For sample items, students will need to log in with their test ticket and a Sample Items Session-ID instead of using a guest id and guest session.
• Use ONLY the Magnifier feature. Students eligible for Text-to-Speech will need to use the built-in feature within the Secure Browser.

See your School Assessment Coordinator for additional information or assistance.

Braille Formats for Statewide Assessment

Are your students taking the Florida Statewide Assessments in braille this year? Are you tasked with creating practice materials in braille for these assessments and are unsure how to format them?

Consider viewing this webinar to learn about updates related to how test items are formatted in braille. Take this opportunity to experience test items included in braille statewide assessments. Math examples are presented in both UEBMS and UEB w/ Nemeth. Build skills with your students prior to test administration day to alleviate the stress of potentially challenging test items.

Formatting matters! Apply concepts learned during this webinar when producing all variations of schoolwork for children. Remember, quality formatting supports instruction and increases success rates for braille reading potential.

Handouts: To maximize learning, examples may be easier to follow along if printed out or viewed on a second screen because 2 slides (1 showing print, 1 showing braille) will be compared but cannot be shown at the same time during presentation. If you decide to print, please note length of documents.

Braille Formats for Statewide Assessment - FIMC-VI

Understanding Florida Statewide Assessment Item Types and the Implications for Students with Visual Impairments

Are your students with visual impairments taking Florida Statewide Assessments this year? Are you interested in learning about how different item types are adapted for braille and computer-based tests? Do you know about tools/features available to prepare your students with low vision to access online assessments? Do you know about opportunities coming soon for braille access to computer-based sample items? Take this opportunity to learn about the item types and implications across all platforms for students who are blind or low vision. Math examples are presented in all braille formats. Viewing this webinar will provide information that will help you prepare your students to answer potentially challenging test item types and ultimately enhance their success!

Understanding Florida Statewide Assessment Item Types and the Implications for Students with Visual Impairments Webinar - FIMC-VI