Every year, students in grades 3-8 and 11 complete state tests. 

The Oregon Statewide Assessment System includes required summative tests in three content areas (general and extended versions of English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science tests), as well as tests of English language proficiency that are required to determine which students are eligible to enter or exit English learner status (English Language Proficiency Assessment).

• Students are challenged to think critically and analytically, and apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems. These are not the multiple-choice tests students experienced in the past.

• The questions are interactive and go deeper, allowing students to explain their answers, engage with texts, and build equations.

• The tests match the content and skill standards Oregon has adopted to better prepare students for college and careers. They measure the skills and information your child has been learning in class. 

Assessment Requirements for Oregon Students

·  Mathematics: Grades 3 – 8 and 11

·  English Language Arts: Grades 3 – 8 and 11

·  Science: Grades 5, 8 and 11

·  English Language Proficiency Assessment (ELPA): Kindergarten – 12

Opting out of Testing (Mathematics and/or English Language Arts)

Parents, legal guardians and adult students (age 18+) have the right to opt out of statewide assessments if they choose. Information and forms are available below.

• Download the state testing Fact Sheet and Opt-out Form:
  • 2022-23 English combined 30-day notice and opt-out form
  • 2022-23 Notificación combinada en español de 30 días y formulario de exclusión voluntaria3 español

Requesting a Testing Exemption (Science and/or ELPA)

Parents, legal guardians and adult students (age 18+) may request an exemption from taking the Science or English Language Proficiency Assessment (ELPA). OAR 581-021-009 allows parents, guardians or adult students to request an exemption from testing based on a student’s disability or religion. Unlike the opt-out process for Mathematics and English Language Arts, requests for exemptions for all other tests must satisfy the following conditions:

·  Be submitted in writing to the district (there is not a state standardized form)

·  Include reasons for the request (disability or religion)

·  Propose an alternative learning activity for the student

·  Subject to district review and determination whether to approve

Please request a template from your child’s school to request an exemption.

Questions?

If you have specific questions about your child’s progress and/or classroom experience, please contact your child’s principal or classroom teacher.