RICAS Letter of Support to Families
March 2023
Dear Warwick families,
Thank you to our administration, principals and teachers for all their support in preparing for RICAS testing. As they say, “it takes a village,” and RICAS testing is no exception. From sharing the released test items, reviewing the platform/format of the tests, creating a testing schedule, moving classes around, etc…our folks have done an outstanding job.
These state assessments are not a “gotcha.” Instead, these are windows into our strengths and areas of growth so we can move teaching and learning forward in our district.
As we begin our state RICAS assessments in Grades 3-8 this week, we ask for some family support as well. Simple tasks such as an earlier bedtime, a healthy breakfast, and coming to school on time all support these efforts. Additionally, we want to share the RICAS protocol in regards to electronic devices (p. 56 of the Administrator’s manual):
During testing, staff members announce:
“Before we begin the test, you need to know that cell phones, smart watches, earbuds, and other electronic devices are not allowed for any reason during this session, even after you submit your test. Results may be invalidated for students with any of these devices during testing or after submitting their tests.”
“If you have a cell phone or other electronic device with you, please make sure it is now turned off, put it in your backpack, and leave it by the side of the room. You will be able to access it again when I give you permission to do so.”
Pause to make sure that students have turned cell phones and other electronic devices off and have placed them in their backpacks.
We ask that you help support our students throughout this testing season. Thank you for your partnership.
Sincerely,
Warwick Public Schools
