Testing & Assessment

The West New York School District is dedicated to maximizing all students’ potential for success.  The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is focused on the academic success of all students and their readiness for college and careers.  In order to assess student achievement and progress, a series of tests are administered.

                                                                                                                                       

What test/tests do students take?

All students will be tested both formally and informally.  Classroom teachers informally assess their students’ progress on a daily basis and administer teacher-made tests to evaluate their achievement.  Designed and developed with the input of supervisors and teachers, Cycle Assessments are also given students in all content areas throughout the year.  In addition, a series of State assessment tests determine student mastery of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS).

 

What state or district test will be administered to Kindergarten-Grade 2 students?

Assessing student achievement in the Kindergarten to Grade 2 is includes teacher-made tests, Gold Strategies for K and Cycle Assessments.  These assessments provide teachers with  information regarding the students' achievement and allow for focus to address areas of need.

 

What state or district test will be administered to Grades 3-8 students?

In addition to teacher-made tests and Cycle Assessment students, students participate in New Jersey Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA) in the areas of English Language Arts and Mathematics.  In Grades 5 and 8 students will also participate in the NJSLA in Science.  Grade 8 students enrolled in an Algebra I course are tested in Algebra I instead of Math Gr. 8.

 

What state or district test will be administered to Grade 9-11 students?

High school students in Grade 9 participate in the NJSLA assessment for English Language Arts and/or Grades 9-10 in course-specific Mathematics tests to indicate achievement.  Students in Grade 11 participate in NJSLA in Science and the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA) in ELA and Math.  Students enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) courses are also tested in those subjects in the Spring.

 

Are there other mandated statewide tests?

Yes, students who are English Language Learners (ELLs) must take the ACCESS for ELLs 2.0 to demonstrate achievement in both their English language acquisition and their grade-appropriate content.  All ELL students K-12 participate in this testing.  Students with special needs are tested based on their individual IEPs and may include alternate tests such as the Dynamic Learning Map (DLM) or Alternate ACCESS test.

 

Why are so many tests administered to students?

West New York is dedicated to the success of all its students.  Federal/State requirements mandate student participation.  Tests are given annually in order to determine the focus of instruction and to determine which students are in need of extra assistance.  In addition to assistance during the school day, extended day and extended year classes help students be successful.

 

When will these tests be administered?

Testing takes place throughout the school year with dates varying from year to year.  Referring to the WNY website, under the "Parent" link, will assist you in determining when a particular test is being administered.

 

How can I get more information about testing and assessment?

In addition to the student’s teacher and building administrators, Eileen Calderone, the District Test Coordinator, is also available to assist you.  She may be contacted by email at [email protected] or by phone at (201) 553-4000 ext. 32115.