January 2026
The Chatham Central School District encourages all students in grades 3-8 to participate in the New York State Testing Program. We know that in recent years, there has been much debate around these tests. Based on feedback throughout the state, the New York State Education Department has made many updates to these assessments that support students and provide information to school districts that help enhance our educational programs. These changes have encouraged more families around the state to have their child participate in the New York State Testing program.
As a School District, we want to make sure our families are informed about the New York State Testing program and how they can support all students and positively impact our academic programming and instruction.
Changes Made to NY State Assessments:
No Time Limits: Students are permitted to take as much time as they need during the school day to complete their work. The "ticking clock" has been removed to reduce anxiety.
Familiar Technology: By using Computer-Based Testing (CBT), students use the same devices they use for daily learning, making the format feel like a normal part of their routine.
Assessments are Aligned to New Standards: Based on feedback from educators around the state, NY adopted new standards called the NY P-12 Learning Standards. These standards emphasize deeper knowledge, critical thinking and real world skills that focus on practical application and interdisciplinary literacy rather than just memorization.
New Formatting: The students now spend less time testing. Based on feedback, the state reduced the testing to two sessions (ELA and Math) and one session (Science 5 and 8) and has reduced the amount of questions asked on each day.
If the District Continues to Have High Refusal Rates:
The New York State Education Department monitors school district’s participation in state testing. Chatham has had low participation rates and is not meeting criteria for state testing. The district is in jeopardy of becoming a “targeted district” for testing unless we show improvements as a community.
How State Assessments Can Benefit Our Students:
Tailored Instruction: Teachers use this data to see which specific skills (like multi-step word problems or evidence-based writing) our classes have mastered and where we need to provide extra help or enrichment in the classroom.
Testing Skills: By participating in the NYS Testing Program, Chatham students are afforded authentic practice with test taking skills. It will also expose students to standardized and computer based testing. As students get into high school and beyond, they may be required to take standardized assessments such as Regents exams and computer based tests such as SAT and ACT tests.
Support Services: These assessments are another way in which the district determines if a specific child will benefit from extra academic support or enrichment. Based on a student's score, a child may qualify for extra support in ELA or math, or it may determine if they would benefit from an extra enrichment program.
How State Assessments Can Benefit Our Specific District:
Professional Learning: Utilizing the data from the NYS assessments, the district’s professional learning plan can be targeted to address specific areas for teachers’ growth and support.
Securing Resources: Demonstrating our students' needs through these assessments helps the district advocate for grants, state funding, and additional support staff like reading and math specialists.
Assesses Our Programs: The district makes curriculum and program decisions based on the results of the state assessments
We appreciate your support and partnership in your child’s education. If you have any questions regarding the New York State Testing Program or your child’s participation in state assessments please don’t hesitate to reach out to Terry Bordell, Director of Innovation, Curriculum, and Assessment bordellt@chatham.k12.ny.us or Andrew Kourt, Chatham CSD Superintendent kourta@chatham.k12.ny.us
Fondly,
Terry Bordell
Director of Innovation, Curriculum, and Assessment
Andrew Kourt
Superintendent
Grades 3-8 Testing Schedule:
Math - April 28th and April 29th
ELA - May 5th and May 6th
Grade 5 & 8 Science - May 12th