PSSAs move to all digital format, Testing to begin April 20

The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) is an annual exam administered to students in grades 3-8 in English Language Arts and mathematics, and to students in grades 5 and 8 in science. This year, all PSSA testing will be conducted online using district-issued iPads.

Device procedures will vary by grade level:

• Elementary students (grades 3-5) will leave their iPads at school during the testing window. Families are asked to send in the district-issued charger so devices can be charged overnight at school.
• Middle school students (grades 6-8) will take their iPads home each day and are responsible for bringing them to school fully charged on testing days.

Calculators are permitted for specific sections of the test and students may be required to provide their own calculator.

We have received clarification from the state that students are permitted to use an external keyboard with their iPad during PSSA testing. However, students have practiced completing the assessments online without a keyboard; therefore, one is not necessary. Families who wish to purchase and send a keyboard with their child may do so. A stylus or mouse may also be used, but is not necessary.

Test-Taking Strategies

• Be mentally prepared and approach the test with confidence — don’t be intimidated.
• Answer every question; if unsure, make your best guess.
• Eliminate obviously incorrect choices to improve your chances.
• Respond to all short-answer questions in complete sentences, restating the question in your answer.
• Take your time and review your responses before submitting.

Testing Schedule

Elementary Schools

• ELA: April 20, 21 & 22 (Grades 3-5)
• Math: April 27 & 28 (Grades 3-5)
• Science: April 29 & 30 (Grade 5 only)

Middle School

• ELA: April 20, 21 & 23 (Grades 6-8)
• Math: April 27 & 28 (Grades 6-8)
• Science: April 30 & May 1 (Grade 8 only)

PSSA results are used by the district to help inform curriculum and instruction, and to support student growth. Participation in standardized assessments also provides students with valuable experience for future testing, including college and career readiness exams, driver’s license tests, and other required assessments.

Complete PSSA information including test day resources can be found here and on the state’s website.

Opting Out

Pennsylvania school code requires all students take the PSSAs. However, a parent/guardian may excuse their child(ren) for religious reasons. This is the only basis for a parent/guardian to excuse their child(ren). If you wish to opt out, please read this letter in its entirety. There is a process that must be followed, and an opt out window.