The Berlin Central School District is preparing to administer the New York State third- through eighth-grade assessments in English Language Arts on April 2 and 3 and Mathematics on May 1 and 2.
Last year, the state Commissioner of Education responded to parents’ concerns and reduced the length of each assessment from three to two days. Berlin CSD saw a significant increase last year in the participation of its students in grades three through eight completing both assessments.
“This test is a good indicator for our curriculum,” according to Fred Hutchinson, director of curriculum, instruction and assessment for Berlin. “It benefits both the students and district to have as many students as possible take the assessments. The more results we see, the more information we have to plan for improvements that we can make as a district.”
Berlin Elementary Principal Tracy Kent, said, “Taking these assessments builds students’ stamina and comfort level with testing and prepares them for the Regents exams in high school.”
“Our character trait this month at the Elementary School is perseverance, and taking these assessments is great practice for the students to find that trait in themselves.”
Principal Catherine Allain, of the Middle-High School, announced that there will be a brief informational meeting for parents on March 15 at 6:30 pm, after the pasta dinner and before the musical presentation of Fiddler on the Roof.
“This will provide an opportunity for parents to hear about the significant improvements that have taken place with regard to the state assessments,” said Principal Allain.
Students may take as much time as they need to complete each day’s assessment. It is important that when students begin a test on day one that they follow through on day two to receive an accurate result.
Berlin CSD will be providing students a free breakfast on the mornings of the assessments. At the completion of the second day of each assessment, Middle School students can unwind with a “celebration,” including physical games and activities.
For more information contact Fred Hutchinson at fhutchinson@berlincentral.org or attend the informational meeting on March 15 at 6:30 at the Berlin Middle/High School.