Dear Riptide Families,

The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP), also referred to as state testing, will take place at Robinson this year in May. Students in grades 3–5 will take the English Language Arts (ELA) and Math assessments. Students in 5th grade only will take the California Science Test (CAST).

The assessments provide valuable information that helps us understand how well students are meeting state standards. This, in turn, helps us to identify strengths and areas for growth in our educational programs. State testing helps determine our placement in state and national rankings and can earn our school and district positive recognition. Thank you for your support!

State Testing Schedule Information:

• State testing will take place throughout the month of May. Please see below for state testing schedules by grade level:

• Minimize absences during state testing. While make-up testing is available after the school-wide testing window, students tend to do their best when testing alongside their classmates in a familiar, focused environment.
• Arrive at school on time on testing days. This helps minimize disruptions and allows all students to begin in a calm, focused mindset, rather than feeling rushed or unsettled from arriving late.

State Testing Technology Requirements:

• The test is administered on Chromebooks. Students will be using their classroom device for the test. They have been practicing on these devices and are familiar with the testing platform.

• Students need to bring wired headphones from home for the test. Wireless headphones are not compatible with the state testing secure web browser. Please plan ahead and look for a comfortable pair of headphones.

Other Recommendations

Teachers have been preparing students for the state test throughout the year by teaching the California state standards. In the weeks leading up to the test, they have provided focused instruction on test readiness. This includes teaching test-taking strategies, demonstrating the universal tools available on the testing platform, and guiding students through practice assessments called Interim Assessment Blocks (IABs). They’ve worked hard and are ready to do their best!

While there isn’t specific material to study for the test, here are a few helpful ways you can support your child in doing their best:

• Ensure they get plenty of sleep the night before the test.
• Prepare a healthy breakfast in the morning and make sure they arrive at school on time.
• Encourage a positive mindset. Talk with your child about keeping a healthy attitude and giving their best effort. We want every student to feel confident knowing that trying their best is what truly matters.

Feel free to reach out to me, or your child’s classroom teacher, if you have any questions regarding CAASPP. We appreciate your support. 

Sincerely,
Katie Cavallaro

Principal, Robinson Elementary School