Pennsylvania State Testing

Bristol Township School District students will be taking the Pennsylavania System of State Assessments, also known as the PSSAs. What are the PSSAs used for and why should your child participate in the assessment?

The Every Student Succeeds Act or ESSA, requires students to take state tests in reading and math every year in third through eighth grade and once in high school. In Pennsylvania, students in third through eighth grade take the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) in English language arts and math. Students in fifth and eighth grade also take a test in science. High school students take end-of-course tests known as the Keystone Exams in Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry, English, Biology/Chemistry, U.S. History, World History, Civics and Government.

The PSSAs focus on grade level material aligned to the state standards. It gives parents, teachers, and school district leaders information to make decisions that affect student achievements.

• Parents and students see how well their student performed at grade level
• Teachers make informed decisions regarding instruction.
• District Leaders can make decisons about student learning and achievement.
• State leaders can determine which schools require more resurces and/or additional funding.

• Talk about it! Don't just brush over it with a simple “Oh, it will be fine”.

• Stress that the test is only a way to check what they know.

• Help your child get good sleep.

• Plan healthy (and hearty) meals.

• Keep your evenings low stress and low key.

• Encourage them to try thier best!

• Tell your child how proud you are.

Spring Testing Season Window

ELA - April 23, 24, 25 Grades 3-8

Make-up testing in the afternoon

Math - April 28, 29 Grades 3-8

Make-up testing in the afternoon

Science - April 30 & May 1 Grades 5 and 8 *Only

All testing must be completed by May 2, 2025

2024-2025 Keystones

Spring 5/12/25-5/23/25

Summer 7/28/25 8/1/25

***Each school will post their specific testing dates and times.