Message from Randy Dorn

Dear Principal,

As you are well aware, spring testing is just around the corner. This year will be particularly challenging as we move to the new Smarter Balanced tests in English language arts and math.

I want to thank you for your commitment to the transition – and for your patience as we all work to get there. Once we get through this first testing season, the process will be much smoother. And we will have a higher quality assessment system that shows more accurately the progress students are making toward career, college, and life.

By now, districts should have testing windows and schedules set. Accommodations and designated supports can be assigned. Test coordinators and administrators (formerly known as building coordinators and proctors) should be identified. Training plans should be in the works. Practice and training tests should be used with all teachers and students to become familiar with test engine, item types, and look and feel of new assessments. Interim assessments are available to try and explore. And all teachers should have access to the Digital Library. We’ve heard good things from folks who are using it to inform instruction.

I want you to know that we are doing everything we can to support districts and schools:

1.       The assessment vendor, AIR, has guaranteed a 24-hour response time when problems arise. Software errors are typically resolved within two to three days.
2.       OSPI’s assessment analysts are also responding to technical, data, and technology concerns.
3.       OSPI has hired an additional assessment operations staff member to help with customer service.
4.       OSPI is providing answers to most assessment questions we receive in monthly webinars and Q & As, and in materials posted on the portal.
5.       OSPI has developed a list of resources to help families understand the new learning standards and related assessment system.
6.       OSPI has a communications plan that includes hosting a media roundtable to inform the press about Smarter Balanced.

If you have questions, please contact your district assessment coordinator.

I know this spring will be tough. Trying something for the first time, especially something this big, is never easy. I appreciate all you are doing to get this new system integrated into your school. And for everything you are doing to help educate the children of our state.

Sincerely,

Randy Dorn