MCAS information for 2021

MCAS testing information for this year!

Good morning everyone,

Please read this email carefully. It contains information about the upcoming MCAS tests as well as a Technology survey that we would like you to complete.

Thanks

Chris

When are the MCAS tests?

Please use  this link for our schedule for MCAS testing in Grades 7,8,9,10 & 11.
 
Which tests will I take?
 
  • Grade 7: ELA and Math
  • Grade 8: ELA, Math & Science
  • Grade 9: Intro to Physics or Biology
  • Grade 10: ELA & Math
  • Grade 10 do not have to take the Grade 9 Science test from last year, as long as they passed their Grade 9 Science course last year
  • Grade 11: ELA & Math (This is a state requirement for graduation)
 
Where will the tests be held?
 
Tests will be held according to the schedule at Smith Academy during the regular school day. There is no provision for taking any MCAS remotely. You will use a chrome book in order to complete the tests online.
 
Will regular classes run whilst MCAS is taking place?
 
Organizing and staffing MCAS testing is a challenge and as far as possible we will try to keep our regular day as normal as possible for our non-MCAS test takers. If any changes have to happen, this will be communicated to you as early as possible.
 
Do I have to take the MCAS?
 
Grade 10 MCAS in ELA, Math and Grade 9 Science are requirements for graduation. If a student does not pass first time, there will typically be a retake opportunity in November and then again in February of the following school year.
 
Grade 7 & 8 MCAS are good opportunities to check your progress in content areas. This year, the state's focus is on using these tests to try to measure where any gaps in learning have appeared as a result of the pandemic. All students are strongly encouraged to take these tests in order to help teachers plan in as much detail as possible for next year.
 
What do I need to do now?
 
To help our logistical planning, please can you complete this Technology needs survey at your earliest convenience and at the latest, by Tuesday, March 9th
 
Where can I find out more information about MCAS?
 
Please visit the DESE website here for more information and resources.
 
Please do email with any questions or concerns.
 
Best
 
Chris Buckland