[Assessment_Advisory_Committee] 2014-15 test administration window

[BROWN Derek]

Assessment Advisory,

Many thanks for the rich dialogue and feedback regarding the 2014-15 test administration window.  As you know, the administration of Smarter Balanced assessments presents several issues we haven't dealt with in recent years, most specifically the test administration window and number of testing opportunities.  Based on your feedback, it seems clear there is a need to extend the back end of the window and an understanding of the potential impact such an action will have on accountability reporting.  You've also expressed the need to create more time on the front end, in particular for high schools on trimester schedules.

Given those points, please give me your thoughts on the following test administration window for Smarter Balanced ELA and Math assessments:

Grades 3-8, and high school (grade 11): Mar 3 - Jun 12

Regardless of the statewide test window set for these assessments, districts will be required to establish local windows that meet the threshold criteria of instructional days delivered prior to beginning testing, at the respective grade levels.  In essence, I believe we can set a wider window at the state level and require districts to police themselves.

Please note we've asked AIR for feedback regarding the impact of a wider statewide window, as suggested above, and will weigh their feedback as part of the decision making process.  As you know, we're planning on releasing the interim 2014-15 TAM in early August, and would like to provide an updated Smarter Balanced test window at that time.

Thanks in advance for your thinking and feedback on this important topic.

Derek

Derek Brown
Director of Assessment
Office of Learning
Oregon Department of Education
255 Capitol St. NE
Salem, OR 97310
Ph. 503-947-5841
Fax 503-378-5156
derek.brown at state.or.us<mailto:derek.brown at state.or.us>



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