OHVA Testing
Ohio Required State Testing 2026-2027
Fall - New Remote Testing for Students
This fall, OHVA begins remote testing for most of our students. Our Director of Academics, Mrs. Marie Mueller, shares the new testing policy in the attached letter, which has gone out to all legal guardians. The video below explains more about remote testing in a short 13-minute quick training for families and students. This will walk families through doing the technology tests on their computers, how to take the test remotely, and how to communicate with staff while taking the test. https://vimeo.com/1230018466
Instructions for Students
Our Testing Coordination department also provides this helpful guideline for students. Save, or print out, and use while preparing for your testing, students! It is attached below.
Testing Notices/Confirmations - Good Communication
Remote Testing FAQ's
Before Test Day
Q: What should we do before remote testing?
A: Complete the technology readiness steps provided by OHVA, make sure the testing device is ready with a secure browser downloaded, and choose a quiet testing location. Students should know where they will test and have the materials permitted for their test ready before the session begins.
Q: Why is it so important to have a secure browser downloaded and ready before testing?
A: The secure browser locks the student's screen during testing. It prevents exiting the test session, opening other tabs, or using unauthorized applications until the test is finished.
Q: Does the device need a camera?
A: Yes. The computer must have a built-in or plug-in webcam. Video monitoring is required for remote testing, so the camera must work before test day.
Q: What should the testing space look like?
A: Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a bare wall behind the student where the student can be seen clearly on camera and can test without interruptions. Remove unnecessary electronics, notes, books, and other materials unless OHVA has specifically told you they are permitted.
Q: Why is a blank wall necessary?
A: The camera monitoring system may detect objects or activity around the student and can interrupt or end the testing session. Posters or pictures on the wall, pets visible behind the student, activity near a window, or other objects in view may cause a testing interruption. A clear, blank wall helps reduce these issues.
Q: How can I prepare my student for remote testing?
A: Keep a positive attitude and remind your student that the test is one way to demonstrate learning. Encourage a full night's sleep and a healthy breakfast on test mornings. Practice calming strategies, such as slow, deep breaths, if your student feels nervous.
On Test Day
Q: What time does remote testing happen?
A: Students should follow the time listed in their OHVA testing communication. A typical remote testing block may run approximately 8:30–12:00 a.m. OHVA may also use an afternoon make-up block, such as 1:00–4:00 p.m., when needed. The student's assigned communication is the final schedule.
Q: What should my student have ready?
A: Have the charged testing device, working webcam, charger, and any OHVA-approved testing materials ready. Students should use the restroom, eat beforehand when appropriate, and be ready to remain in the testing area for the session. Make sure the student has their student ID and session ID readily available.
Q: Can a parent or Learning Coach stay with the student?
A: A parent or Learning Coach may help the student get connected before testing begins, but may not assist with test questions, explain content, provide answers, or view secure test material. Follow the TA's directions about when adults should step away from the testing area.
Q: Can my student use a phone, smartwatch, notes, or another device?
A: No, unless OHVA specifically identifies an item as an approved accommodation or testing tool. Phones, smartwatches, unapproved electronics, notes, and other unauthorized resources should be removed from the testing area.
During the Test
Q: Who monitors the test?
A: An OHVA Test Administrator monitors students remotely. Students must follow the TA's directions, remain visible on camera, and stay in the assigned testing session.
Q: What if my student has a question?
A: Students may ask the TA for help with testing procedures or technology. The TA cannot explain test questions, define content, guide a student toward an answer, or help solve a problem.
Q: Can my student take a break?
A: Breaks must follow the TA's instructions and state testing rules. Students should not leave the testing area or access other devices or materials without permission.
Q: What happens when my student finishes?
A: The student should follow the TA's directions for submitting or ending the test. Do not simply close the testing program and leave the session. The TA may need to verify the student's status before dismissing them.
Technology Problems and Internet Outages
Q: What should we do if the internet disconnects?
A: Stay calm and follow the TA's directions using the separate OHVA communication method, if available. The student should not continue testing without required monitoring. The TA may reconnect from another device, transfer the session, or direct students to pause and join a new testing session.
Q: What if the TA loses internet or disappears from the session?
A: Students should pause when instructed and wait for OHVA directions through the separate communication platform. Another TA may create a new session for students to join. OHVA staff will document any period when students could not be monitored and will follow required state procedures.
Q: Will an internet problem automatically invalidate the test?
A: Not necessarily. OHVA will document the outage and determine the appropriate next steps under state testing procedures. Students and families should follow staff directions rather than attempting to restart or continue the test independently.
Attendance, Completion & Make-Ups
Q: Does joining the testing session mean my student is finished?
A: No. Being marked as attended does not always mean the test was completed. OHVA verifies testing status separately to make sure the required test was actually submitted or completed.
Q: What if my student cannot test at the assigned time?
A: Contact OHVA as soon as possible. When available, the student may be assigned to a make-up session. Do not assume that logging in later will automatically place the student into another testing room.
Q: What if my student accidentally submits too early or there is a testing issue?
A: Tell the TA immediately. In some situations, OHVA may be able to request that a test be reopened through the state testing system. Reopening is not automatic and depends on the circumstances and state requirements.
Accommodations
Q: Will my student's IEP, 504 Plan, or EL accommodations still be available remotely?
A: Approved testing accommodations are reviewed and prepared by OHVA before testing. Some accommodations require additional planning in a remote setting, so families should contact OHVA before test day if something appears incorrect or missing.
Q: How does Speech-to-Text work for remote testing?
A: Speech-to-Text is a special accessibility feature that requires advance review and approval. It cannot simply be turned on during the test. OHVA staff must complete the required decision-making and state approval process before it can be used.
Q: Can a Learning Coach act as a scribe or translator?
A: Only when OHVA has specifically approved and arranged the support under applicable testing and accommodation rules. Families should never provide unapproved assistance during a secure test.
A Few Important Reminders
• Keep the webcam on and remain visible as directed by the TA.
• Do not photograph, record, copy, discuss, or share test questions.
• Keep unauthorized devices and materials away from the testing space.
• Use only the tools, calculators, glossaries, or other materials approved for the student's test.
• If something goes wrong, tell the TA instead of trying to fix the test session independently.
• Wait for the TA to dismiss the student before leaving the remote testing session.
When is Testing?
Fall 2026 Testing Schedule (3rd - 12th)
Fall testing schedules for October's 3rd grade testing, and December's End of Course testing.
NOTE: If your student has an IEP or 504 Plan that requires accommodations for small group or 1:1, your schedule may vary from what is shown above.
ACT Testing Dates 2027 - In Person Testing
A Note about Identification for ACT Testing for 11th Graders:
These are acceptable forms of ID's:
- OHVA School ID with Photo (Order HERE - Allow 3 weeks to process. Once added to the CART, these will show as FREE!)
- Ohio Driver's License with Photo
- Ohio Temporary Driver's License with Photo
Spring End of Course Testing Schedule
Practice, Practice & Practice!
Build Confidence for Testing!
Expose your student to test practice now to help them be at ease when they sit down to test. Access state practice tests HERE or above, and note some helpful info below.
Did you know that our state tests are done on the computer? Help your student with typing practice below.
Did you know that state test questions often have multiple parts? It's important to help your student become familiar with the format, and they may have to scroll up and down pages to access the parts of a question.
Did you know that students should know how to use a calculator online? These are provided in the tests for 6th grade and up, and may be unfamiliar, so make sure to expose your student to how these work.
Did you know that students can use scratch paper? Just because the test is on a computer does not mean that students should do everything "in their head."
Did you know that your attitude toward testing will positively or negatively impact your student? Do your best to be positive and explain that testing has a purpose, and the student should do his/her best.
Did you know that testing is not a "bubble" test anymore? Your memory of testing in school is not what our students do today! All students are asked to think, reason, write, and explain on state tests. Give them practice with writing out their thinking.
Testing Advice from NHS Students!
Topics & Links - Huge thanks to our NHS Students for these Testing Tips for our OHVA students!
#3 Get Yourself Physically Ready
#4 Getting Yourself Mentally Ready
#5 Importance of Going to State Testing
English Language Proficiency and Alternate Assessment
Ohio English Language Proficiency Screener – (OELPS)
- This test is for students who qualify as English Language Learners only.
- Students will be contacted by a teacher for their specific onsite testing time
Ohio English Language Proficiency Assessment (OELPA) & Alternate Ohio English Language Proficiency (ALT-OELPA)
- This test is for students who qualify as English Language Learners only.
- Students will be contacted by a teacher for their specific onsite testing time
Alternate Assessment for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities (AASCD) - Scheduled at Libraries
- Students will be contacted by a teacher for their specific onsite testing time
Testing Tips & More
Typing Tutors Online - Prepare for Tech-Based Testing
Students who are publicly e-schooled at home need to master the keyboard. Not only can this be important for daily work, but it's also needed for state testing. Here are some excellent websites to help your students learn to type with accuracy and then with speed: https://www.typing.com/typinglessons and https://www.keybr.com/.
About OHVA
Email: sebie@k12.com
Website: ohva.k12.com
Location: Ohio Virtual Academy, 1690 Woodlands Dr, Maumee, OH, USA
Phone: 419-482-0948
