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Assessment Spotlight

Email updates sent out through the California Department of Education statewide assessments electronic mailing lists.

The California Department of Education (CDE) Assessment Spotlight is a regular email for K–12 educators, including testing coordinators, that reports on current and upcoming activities related to statewide testing (PDF).

To join the email list, send a blank message to subscribe-caaspp@mlist.cde.ca.gov. If you would like to unsubscribe from the CDE statewide assessments listserv, send a blank message to unsubscribe-caaspp@mlist.cde.ca.gov.

The following links direct users to a list of topics covered within each update:

Abbreviation Definition
CA NGSS California Next Generation Science Standards
CAA California Alternate Assessment
CAASPP California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress
CAC California Assessment Conference
CALPADS California Longitudinal Pupil Data System
CAST California Science Test
CERS California Educator Reporting System
CHSPE California High School Proficiency Examination
CSA California Spanish Assessment
ELA English language arts/literacy
ELPAC English Language Proficiency Assessments for California
HSE high school equivalency
IAB Interim Assessment Block
IEP individualized education program
LEA local educational agency
NGSS Next Generation Science Standards
RFEP reclassified fluent English proficient
RLA reading/language arts
SB Senate Bill
SBE State Board of Education (California)
SNAP Stanford NGSS Assessment Project
SSR Student Score Report
STAIRS Security and Test Administration Incident Reporting System
TOMS Test Operations Management System
UAAG Usability, Accessibility, and Accommodations Guidelines

 

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 217 – January 13, 2023

  • Tools for Teachers: Science Educator Interest Survey
  • January's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Inspiring Investigation: Interpreting & Analyzing Figurative Language

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 216 – January 6, 2023

  • New Coordinator Training Webinar #4—Test Security
  • California Science Test Updates
  • Supporting Student Success with Interim Assessments and Tools for Teachers Webinar
  • 2022–23 Physical Fitness Test Administration Updates
  • System Downtime Underway

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 215 – December 16, 2022

  • California Assessment System Testing Windows, 2022–23
  • Educator Opportunity: California Spanish Assessment Development
  • Field Test: Observation Protocol for Teachers of English Learners
  • Registration Open for Spring 2023 CHSPE
  • Changes Coming for CHSPE Test Series

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 214 – December 9, 2022

  • December's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Interim Assessment Connections Playlist for Mathematics Performance Task
  • Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 213 – December 2, 2022

  • Reminders and Resources for Administering the CAA for Science
  • Desmos Art Contest

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 212 – November 18, 2022

  • Field Test of Observation Protocol for Teachers of English Learners

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 211 – November 11, 2022

  • November's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Explore World Climates with Climatograms

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 210 – November 4, 2022

  • Register Today for the November Webinar on Formative Assessment and Accessibility Strategies
  • High School Equivalency and CHSPE Webinar Series

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 209 – October 28, 2022

  • 2021–22 Assessment Results Release
  • LEAs: Last Day to Complete Your 1.0 Percent Threshold Survey!
  • California Assessment Accessibility Resource Graphics for 2022–23
  • New Videos on the Use of Smarter Balanced Tools!
  • Instructional and Professional Learning Resources to Support Deeper Learning of Performance Tasks

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 208 – October 21, 2022

  • Data-Driven Decision-Making for Educational Leaders, Module 1: Two Opportunities Remaining

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 207 – October 14, 2022

  • CSA Item Writer Workshop Next Month!
  • 1.0 Percent Threshold Survey—Deadline Extended to October 28
  • October's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Hatching a Plan

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 206 – October 7, 2022

  • Last Day to Register: California Assessment Conference
  • Data-Drive Decision-Making Trainings for Educational Leaders
  • California Assessment Accessibility Resource Matrix for 2022–23
  • LEAs: Complete Your 1.0 Percent Threshold Survey
  • Fall ELPAC New Coordinator Trainings—Register Now
  • California Educator Reporting System Training Opportunities
  • Boosting Instruction with Formative Assessment and Accessibility Strategies

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 205 – September 30, 2022

  • 2022 California Assessment Conference—Secure Your Spot Today
  • Now Available: 1.0 Percent Threshold Survey
  • State Board of Education Approves Use of Smarter Balanced Adjusted Form Blueprints
  • Fall Interim Hand Scoring Sessions Begin Next Week!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 204 – September 23, 2022

  • 2022 California Assessment Conference: Spots Still Available
  • Don't Miss Out! Tools for Teachers Shared Practices Webinar Next Week
  • High School Equivalency: A Transition is in Progress!
  • Testing Transitional Kindergarten Students with the Initial ELPAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 203 – September 16, 2022

  • Census Day Reminder to Complete the Initial ELPAC and Initial Alternate ELPAC
  • Register for the September Tools for Teachers Shared Practices Webinar

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 202 – September 9, 2022

  • 2022 California Assessment Conference: Register Today to Learn from Your Colleagues Across the State
  • CSA Item Writer Workshop: Spots Still Available
  • Spots Still Available for the 2022 Interim and Formative Assessment Training Series Fall Sessions!
  • Registration Remains Open for the Introduction to CERS Fall Training Sessions
  • High School Equivalency: A Transition is on the Way!
  • California High School Proficiency Exam
  • September's Featured Professional Learning Resource in Tools for Teachers—Effective School-Home Partnerships!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 201 – September 2, 2022

  • Opportunity This Fall: Smarter Balanced Math Item Review!
  • October 18–20: CAC to Feature Inspiring Keynote Speakers and Array of Sessions
  • October 27: New Coordinator Training Series, Webinar 3—Student Practice

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 200 – August 26, 2022

  • 2022 California Assessment Conference: Schedule and Registration Available!
  • New Coordinator Training Webinar 2—Accessibility Coming Next Month
  • CAST High School Reference Sheet Updated!
  • Key Dates for California High School Proficiency Exam
  • Reminder: Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 199 – August 19, 2022

  • LEA Access to Smarter Balanced Aggregate Area/Claim Results
  • Recent Resource Updates: Assessment Timeline, System Chart, and Parent Guides
  • CSA Item Writer Workshop: Application Deadline Next Month

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 198 – August 12, 2022

  • Now Available! 2022–23 ELPAC Information Guide
  • Register Now for Summer CAASPP New Coordinator Training!
  • New Resource—Organization of the CAA for Science
  • August's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Radical Learning
  • Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 197 – August 5, 2022

  • Now Available! 2022–23 Smarter Balanced Interim Assessments
  • 2022–23 CAA for Science Administration Planning Guides!
  • 2022–23 Tools for Teachers Shared Practices Webinar Series

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 196 – July 29, 2022

  • 2022 Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting Starts Next Week!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 195 – July 22, 2022

  • Space Available! Math Interim Assessment Hand Scoring Training Next Week
  • Reminder—Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 194 – July 8, 2022

  • July's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—In Defense of Kelp
  • High School Equivalency Summer Convenings in August!
  • Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 193 – July 1, 2022

  • New Alternate ELPAC Notification Letters Now Available!
  • Downtime This Weekend for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 192 – June 24, 2022

  • ELPAC Checklists for 2022–23 Now Available!
  • Initial ELPAC Reminder
  • Available Soon: 2022–23 Initial ELPAC and Alternate Initial ELPAC!
  • Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 191 – June 17, 2022

  • Deadline Extended: 2022 CAC Call for Shared Practice Proposals

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 190 – June 10, 2022

  • Registration for New Coordinator Training Webinars is Now Open
  • Summer Trainings for LEA Staff Starting Soon!
  • June's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Send in the Colons
  • ELPAC Reminders
  • California Spanish Assessment Opportunity to Get Involved!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 189 – June 3, 2022

  • 2022 High School Equivalency Summer Covenings in August!
  • Alternate ELPAC—Question of the Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 188 – May 27, 2022

  • 2022 Interim and Formative Assessment Training Series—Register Now for Summer Sessions!
  • Alternate ELPAC Alignment Workshop—August 1 and 2

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 187 – May 20, 2022

  • Updated, Easily Accessible: Quick Reference Guides
  • Updated CAA Eligibility Determination Guidance for Parents and Guardians

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 186 – May 13, 2022

  • Summer ELPAC New Coordinator Training—Register Now
  • California Spanish Assessment Opportunity to Get Involved!
  • May's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers: Desmos - Balloon Float

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 185 – May 6, 2022

  • 2022 CAC: Call for Shared Practice Proposals
  • Educators Still Needed for the Alternate ELPAC Alignment Workshop
  • Focus on Test Security—Invalidation Appeal FAQs
  • Registration Open for Introduction to CERS Training!
  • Plan to Join Us at the 2022 HSE Summer Covenings!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 184 – April 29, 2022

  • Registration for Summer CHSPE Extended to May 6!
  • Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting, 2022
  • Contacts for Questions About CAASPP and ELPAC Administration
  • CAASPP and ELPAC Summative Assessment Windows
  • New Tool for Quick Answers to Common Questions!
  • High School Science Test Participation

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 183 – April 22, 2022

  • Educators Needed for Alternate ELPAC Alignment Workshop!
  • Alternate ELPAC English Only Study Extended
  • Focus on Test Security—Pause Rules and Grace Period Extensions
  • Now Available—Text-to-Speech Accessibility Resource Video!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 182 – April 15, 2022

  • 2022 CAC Registration Now Live!
  • CALPADS Downtime
  • Administer the CSA to Registered Students
  • CSA Questions of the Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 181 – April 8, 2022

  • New Tool Offers User Friendly Way to Get Answers!
  • CAASPP Question of the Week
  • Focus on Test Security—What Happens After I Sumbit My STAIRS Appeal?
  • April's Featured Tools for Teachers Resource—Travel Machine

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 180 – April 1, 2022

  • Focus on Test Secuirty—STAIRS Delayed Appeals
  • 2021–22 CAA for Science Performance Tasks
  • Locations and Dates Announced for 2022 HSE Summer Covenings!
  • CALPADS Downtime Postponed to April 6–11

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 179 – March 25, 2022

  • Focus on Test Security—What Not to Report in STAIRS
  • Downtime Next Week for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 178 – March 18, 2022

  • New Coordinator Training: Preparing to Receive Summative Scores
  • Focus on Test Security: Overview of the STAIRS/Appeals Process
  • Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 177 – March 11, 2022

  • New Video on Monitoring Test Completion Status!
  • Moodle Training Site Adds New Support Web Page
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • March's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Recharging Our Groundwater

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 176 – March 4, 2022

  • High School Science Test Administration: Flyer Available!
  • ELPAC Reset Appeals
  • LEA Coordinator Webinar on March 23
  • Registration Opens Next Week for HSE Summer Convenings
  • Save the Date: 2022 CAC in October

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 175 – February 25, 2022

  • Returning K–2 ELPAC Writing Answer Books
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • CERS—A Free and Powerful Tool for LEAs
  • March 1: Interim Assessments and Tools for Teachers Shared Practices Webinar

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 174 – February 18, 2022

  • New for 2021–22: Easier Use of Speech-to-Text!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 173 – February 11, 2022

  • Volunteer Schools Sought for ICILS Field Test
  • Alternate ELPAC Operational Field Test Window Extended to May 31
  • Alternate ELPAC English-Only Study Also Extended to May 31
  • ELPAC Questions of the Week
  • February's Featured Tools for Teachers Resource—Four Corners: Writing Linear Inequalities from Graphs
  • Security Training for New Coordinators

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 172 – February 4, 2022

  • K–2 Educators Needed for Alternate ELPAC Development!
  • A Teacher's Best Kept Secret: Interim Assessments and Tools for Teachers

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 171 – January 28, 2022

  • Student Teachers May Administer Spring 2022 Assessments
  • Updated Statewide Notification Template Now Available

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 170 – January 21, 2022

  • Formative Assessment Resources Webinar
  • Data-Driven Decision Making Webinar
  • Security and STAIRS Training for New Coordinators in February

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 169 – January 14, 2022

  • Remote Testing for Summative Assessments
  • January's Featured Tools for Teachers Resources—Professional Development Modules That Support Social and Emotional Learning

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 168 – January 7, 2022

  • 2020–21 Student Data Released
  • Downtime Underway for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems
  • Tools for Teachers and Other Formative Assessment Resources at Your Fingertips—Register Today
  • Now Available! Tools for Teachers Shared Practices Webinar Recordings

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 167 – December 17, 2021

  • Public Release of 2020–21 Student Data
  • Data Training to Replace Assessment Update Webinar in January
  • Alternate Assessments and In-Person Testing
  • Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems
  • November PFT Webinar Now Posted
  • Next Issue of Assessment Spotlight: January 7

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 166 – December 10, 2021

  • Summative CAASPP and ELPAC Notification Letters Now Available
  • ELPAC: TOMS Updates Coming in January
  • Reminders for Summative ELPAC Testing
  • December's Featured Tools for Teachers Resource—Rhetorical Reading Review: A Closer Look at Author, Text, and Audience
  • Registration Open for Spring CHSPE Administration

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 165 – December 3, 2021

  • Approved Adjusted Blueprints for ELA and Math

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 164 – November 12, 2021

  • LEAs: Complete Your 1 Percent Survey! Closes Soon
  • Fall CAASPP New Coordinator Trainings – Register Now
  • November's Featured Tools for Teachers Resource—"Why Wear Safety Gear?"

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 163 – November 5, 2021

  • New CAASPP and ELPAC Checklists for 2021–22
  • Alternate ELPAC Administration Window Opened November 1
  • Testing Notification Letter Templates for Alternate ELPAC Field Test Now Available
  • 2021–22 Technical Specifications and Configuration Guide for Online Testing
  • "Alt for All" Reflected in Updated Decision Worksheet
  • LEAs: Complete Your 1 Percent Survey Soon
  • Webinar Reminder: Learn the Latest About the PFT Next Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 162 – October 29, 2021

  • LEA Coordinators: Register for Assessment Update Webinar
  • PFT Update Webinar in November
  • Webinar Reminder: Making Elementary Science Sizzle with Tools for Teachers

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 161 – October 22, 2021

  • Available Now: One Percent Threshold Survey
  • New Chapter Added to the Online Alternate ELPAC Operational Field Test Manual
  • Don't Miss Out: Upcoming ELPAC Q&A Sessions
  • Opportunity to Provide Feedback on the Alternate ELPAC Operational Field Test Directions for Administration
  • Proposed Plan for Physical Fitness Test Administration
  • PFT Webinar Next Month

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 160 – October 15, 2021

  • Fall ELPAC New Coordinator Trainings—Register Now
  • Making Elementary Science Sizzle with Tools for Teachers—Shared Practices Webinar

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 159 – October 8, 2021

  • Initial ELPAC Extension Approved for LEAs Impacted by Fires
  • Correction Process for Locally Determined Alternate Assessment
  • Alternate ELPAC Parent Notification Letter
  • CAA for Science Preliminary Indicator Communication Toolkit Web Page Updated
  • October's Featured Tools for Teachers Resource—Monstrous Multiplication

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 158 – October 1, 2021

  • Educator Opportunity: California Spanish Assessment Development
  • Summative ELPAC Student Eligibility Report Now Includes Alternate ELPAC
  • Learn About the Alternate ELPAC English Only Study for 2021–22
  • Alternate ELPAC Accessibility and Accommodations Guidelines
  • Fall Sessions: Interim and Formative Assessment Training Series
  • Reminder: Interim Assessments Available for Use in Distance Learning

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 157 – September 24, 2021

  • Math Educators Needed for Item Review Next Month
  • LEA Coordinators: The CDE Wants to Hear from You
  • Coming in October: Using Interim Assessment Data and Tools for Teachers to Support Instruction—Shared Practices Webinar #2
  • New Coordinator Training Webinar #3—Student Practice
  • Registration for 2021 California Assessment Conference Closing Soon
  • Growth Model Public Release
  • New Alternate ELPAC Resource!
  • Educators Needed for Alternate ELPAC Standard Setting

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 156 – September 17, 2021

  • Use of Adjusted Test Blueprints for 2021–22 Approved by SBE
  • ELAS/CALPADS Deadline Approaching for LEAs
  • Important Reminder to LEAs
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • Tools for Teachers Webinar Series Starts Next Week
  • 2021 California Assessment Conference: Registration Closing Soon

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 155 – September 10, 2021

  • Register for Lexile and Quantile Trainings
  • Focus Group Opportunities for Charter School Coordinators
  • Progress! Use of Stopping Markers on Initial ELPAC Improving
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • September's Featured Tools for Teachers Resource—Using Smarter Balanced Interim Assessment Connections Playlists
  • Webinar Reminder: Supporting English Learners with Tools for Teachers

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 154 – September 3, 2021

  • Updated Accessibility Matrix and Resource Graphics for 2021–22
  • Growth Model Toolkit and FAQs: Webinar This Month
  • 2021 CAC: Connect with Colleagues from Throughout the State
  • System Downtime Starts Today

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 153 – August 27, 2021

  • Initial ELPAC Guidance for LEAs Impacted by Fires
  • New Alternate ELPAC Starting Smarter Website
  • Initial ELPAC Question of the Week
  • Webinar Series: Tools for Teachers Shared Practices!
  • Training for New Coordinators: Assessment Accessibility
  • Schedule Posted for 2021 California Assessment Conference
  • Updated CAST Item Specifications Now Posted
  • Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems Starts Next Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 152 – August 20, 2021

  • 2021–22 ELPAC Information Guide Is Here
  • Initial ELPAC Remote Videos Available
  • Upcoming Educator Opportunity: CSA Development
  • All Set for 2021–22: Smarter Balanced Interim Assessments
  • New Guidance for CAAs and Alternate ELPAC: Alt for All

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 151 – August 13, 2021

  • Learn How It's Done at Summer CAASPP New Coordinator Training
  • New Resource—Organization of 2021–22 CAST
  • Good to Know—Notifying Parents About Summative ELPAC Results
  • Sample Initial ELPAC SSRs
  • August's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Using Ratios to Solve Real-World Problems
  • Last of the HSE Summer Convenings Coming Next Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 150 – August 6, 2021

  • Keynotes by John Hattie and Keisa Brown at the 2021 California Assessment Conference
  • System Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC
  • HSE Summer Convenings Continue
  • PFT Resumes in 2021–22
  • Registration for Fall CHSPE Opens This Month

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 149 – July 30, 2021

  • Space Available! Interim Assessment Hand Scoring Training
  • HSE Summer Convenings Begin Next Week!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 148 – July 23, 2021

  • Starting Smarter: Visit CDE's Updated Version!
  • Recent Update: California Assessment Timeline
  • 2021 California Assessment Conference!
  • It's Not Too Late: Register for the 2021 Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting!
  • By Request: Newly Reorganized Resource for Initial ELPAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 147 – July 16, 2021

  • CAASPP Student Results Now Available
  • 2021–22 CDE Assessment Update Webinar Series Starts in November!
  • The 2021–22 Initial ELPAC Is Under Way!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 146 – July 9, 2021

  • July’s Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—“Sunshine and Showers”

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 145 – July 2, 2021

  • July Webinars for New Coordinators
  • Registration Open for High School Equivalency Summer Convenings!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 144 – June 25, 2021

  • New! CAST Range Achievement Level Descriptors Web Page
  • Form Assignments for 2021–22 Alternate ELPAC
  • Now Posted: 2021–22 Alternate ELPAC Operational Field Test Second Scoring Assignments
  • Coming in July: 2021 Interim and Formative Assessment Training Series!
  • High School Equivalency: Summer Convenings in August
  • Recent Study: Exploring Math Education Relationships by Analyzing Large Data Sets

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 143 – June 18, 2021

  • Summative ELPAC Results and Student Score Reports Now Available!
  • Summer Opportunity: Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting
  • Reserve Your Spot Today for the 2021 CAC!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 142 – June 11, 2021

  • Broadband Infrastructure Improvement Grant Available
  • 2021–22 CDE Assessment Update Webinar Series
  • June's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—Understanding English Language Arts/Literacy Performance Tasks Instructional Resource Creation: Grades 3–5

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 141 – June 4, 2021

  • 2021 CAC: High-Quality Professional Development on a Budget
  • ELPAC: New Time Frame for Counting Newly Identified RFEP Students
  • ELPAC Question of the Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 140 – May 28, 2021

  • 2021 CAC Scholarships for California Educators
  • Unique Opportunity for Educators with Special Education and Science Experience: CAA for Science Standard Setting Workshop!
  • Summative ELPAC Eligibility List Reminder
  • ELPAC Question of the Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 139 – May 21, 2021

  • 2021 CAC: Call for Shared Practices Proposals!
  • Reminder: Submit Summative ELPAC Answer Books
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • Registration Open for New Coordinator Training—Summer ELPAC Sessions
  • Register Now for the 2021 Interim and Formative Assessment Training Series!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 138 – May 14, 2021

  • Registration Now Open for Virtual 2021 CAC
  • Unique Opportunity for Educators with Special Education and Science Experience: CAA for Science Standard Setting Workshop!
  • 2021–22 CAA for Science Administration Planning Guides Posted!
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • May's Featured Tools for Teachers Resource: "Using Rubrics to Improve Student Writing"

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 137 – May 7, 2021

  • Starting Next Month: 2021–22 New Coordinator Training Series
  • STAIRS Common Scenarios Guide Posted
  • New Alternate ELPAC Accessibility and Accommodations Guidelines

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 136 – April 30, 2021

  • CSA Provides LEAs Information on Spanish RLA Skills and Programs!
  • First Report in New "ELPAC in Action" Series

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 135 – April 23, 2021

  • Smarter Balanced Events: Applications Due by May 3!
  • Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting Dates for 2021
  • ELPAC Questions of the Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 134 – April 16, 2021

  • 2020–21 Spring Administration FAQs and Guidance
  • Reminder: ELPAC Data Entry Requirement
  • CERS Sandbox Offline Next Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 133 – April 9, 2021

  • Response from US Department of Education
  • Testing Window Extension Approved
  • New Coordinator Training Webinar #5—A Deep Drive into Preparing for Scores
  • Just Posted—Response Options for Alternate Assessments Flyer!
  • April's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—"How Much Time?"

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 132 – April 2, 2021

  • CHSPE: Administrations in April and May
  • Enhance Formative Assessment Practices

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 131 – March 26, 2021

  • Updated Frequently Asked Questions
  • Unique Opportunity for Elementary Science Educators
  • Hand Scoring Calibration Workshop for Math Teachers
  • Smarter Balanced Activities, 2021: Submit Your Application!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 130 – March 19, 2021

  • March 24 Assessment, Accountability, and System of Support Update Webinar: Learn the Latest Information!
  • Upcoming ELPAC Item Writer Workshop
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • Reminder: Downtime Next Week for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 129 – March 12, 2021

  • Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems
  • Look to CERS for CAASPP, ELPAC, and Interim Assessment Results!
  • Teacher Training—Calibrate Student Scoring to Inform Teaching and Learning
  • 2020–21 Test Security Affidavit Guidance for ELPAC and CAASPP
  • Alternate ELPAC Field Test Administration Manual Now Available!
  • March's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—"Sticky Socks"

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 128 – March 5, 2021

  • Feedback Needed on Assessment Flexibilities
  • Educators Needed for Summative ELPAC Alignment Workshop
  • Apply Now for 2021 Smarter Balanced Assessment Development Activities
  • CAA for ELA: Second Scoring Requirement Suspended for 2020–21
  • New ELPAC Video Available!
  • Useful 2020–21 General Guide for ELPAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 127 – February 26, 2021

  • SBE Votes to Seek Federal Flexibilities Due to Impacts of COVID-19
  • ELPAC Questions of the Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 126 – February 19, 2021

  • Feedback Needed This Week on Testing Window Options
  • CDE Assessment Update Webinar Coming in March
  • Teacher Training: Using the Hand Scoring Process to Inform Teaching and Learning
  • ELPAC Question of the Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 125 – February 12, 2021

  • Find It Here: New Web page with Quick Links!
  • February's Featured Tools for Teachers Resource—Strategies at Your Fingertips
  • Now in Spanish: ELPAC Remote Test Instructions for Parents/Guardians

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 124 – February 5, 2021

  • Coming This Month: Test Security Webinar for New Coordinators
  • Smarter Balanced Adjusted Summative Blueprints Posted!
  • Lexile® & Quantile® Hub Available to California Educators
  • Opportunity in March: Summative ELPAC Alignment Workshop
  • Summative ELPAC Testing Has Begun!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 123 – January 29, 2021

  • Training Opportunities Web Pages Now Even Easier to Use!
  • Next Week: Interim Assessment Hand Scoring Workshops Resume

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 122 – January 22, 2021

  • Interim Assessments Offer Flexibility Needed During Distance Learning
  • New! Tools for Teachers Overview Video
  • Opportunity: Summative ELPAC Alignment Workshop in March
  • Now Posted: New CAST Practice Test Constructed Response Annotated Examples

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 121 ‒ January 15, 2021

  • January Assessment Update Webinar
  • 2020‒21 Online ELPAC Test Administration Manual ‒ Now Available!
  • Interim and Formative Assessment Materials for LEA Trainers Now Available in TOMS
  • New! Professional Learning Video for Smarter Content Explorer

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 120 ‒ January 8, 2021

  • Your Questions Answered: Summative Assessment Administration
  • Teachers: Register for Interim Assessment Hand Scoring Workshops!
  • New Video: Creating Student Groups in CERS
  • January's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—"Determining Point of View/Using Evidence"
  • New ELPAC Quick Reference Guides—Now Available!
  • Tools for Teachers: Science Formative Assessment Resources, K‒5!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 119 ‒ December 18, 2020

  • CDE Assessment Update Webinar Date Change
  • Considerations and Options for Summative Test Administration
  • Your Questions Answered: Summative Assessment Administration
  • New Flyer for CAA for Science Test Examiners!
  • Reminder: Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems
  • No Assessment Spotlight over Break

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 118 ‒ December 11, 2020

  • November 2020 CDE Assessment Update Webinar Posted
  • Assessment Update Webinar Series Continues Next Month
  • Upcoming Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Systems
  • New Information: Smarter Balanced Online Resources Updated
  • December's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—"Little Bear Mountain"
  • California Spanish Assessment—Upcoming Item Writer Workshop

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 117 ‒ December 4, 2020

  • New in CALPADS: Student Preferred Name
  • Results of CAA for Science Alignment Study Now Available
  • Reclassification of English Learner Students: Reminder

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 116 ‒ November 20, 2020

  • Join Us: Interim Assessment Hand Scoring Workshops for Teachers
  • New! Tool for Understanding How Smarter Balanced Scores Written Responses
  • Accessibility
  • Summative ELPAC Virtual Office Hours: Date Change Next Month

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 115 ‒ November 13, 2020

  • New Coordinator Training for CAASPP in December
  • This Month's Featured Resource in Tools for Teachers—"Lessons from a Story"
  • New Alternate ELPAC Video for Parents!
  • Results for 2019‒2020 Initial ELPAC Now Available
  • New Feature in CERS: Student Information System Integration

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 114 ‒ November 6, 2020

  • New! Alternate ELPAC Resources Web Page
  • Alternate ELPAC Training Certification is Well Underway!
  • ELPAC Questions of the Week
  • Join Us for ELPAC Office Hours!
  • CAA for Science Starting Smarter Web Pages—Now Available

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 113 ‒ October 30, 2020

  • Registration Open for 2020‒21 Interim Assessment Hand Scoring Workshops for Teachers!
  • Summative ELPAC LEA Certification Courses
  • Available by Request: Summative ELPAC Training Binders
  • Updates on Changes to English Learner Count from CALPADS
  • Guidance on Using Eye Gaze as an Alternate Response Option—Just Updated!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 112 ‒ October 23, 2020

  • The 1 Percent Threshold Justification Survey
  • New ELPAC Coordinator Trainings Coming in November
  • New! Alternate ELPAC Frequently Asked Questions
  • Now Open: Summative ELPAC Moodle Training Site
  • ELPAC Delayed Assessment Letter Template Now Available
  • Updated Multilingual Support Frequently Asked Questions
  • CDE Assessment Update Webinar in November!
  • Upcoming CAASPP and ELPAC Systems Downtime

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 111 – October 9, 2020

  • October 22: New Coordinator Training—A Deep Dive into Resources for Student Practice
  • Just Posted: 2020 Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting!
  • Using Interim Assessments During Distance Learning
  • October’s Featured Resource Available in Tools for Teachers— “Smarter Balanced Ecosystem”

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 110 – October 2, 2020

  • Video Now Available for Entering Student Responses and Scores into the Data Entry Interface
  • Tools for Teachers Grand Opening!
  • Now Available: Updated Interim Assessment Video Series and User Guide
  • Updated Assessment FAQs
  • Just Posted: The California Alternate Assessment for Science Item Content Specifications!
  • Just Posted: 2020‒21 California Student Assessment Accessibility Graphic for Science flyer!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 109 – September 25, 2020

  • Senate Bill 820 Approved!
  • SB 820 and the Initial ELPAC: How to Proceed
  • SB 820 and the PFT
  • Updated ELPAC Directions for Administration
  • CSA Development: California Spanish Educators Needed!
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • Now Available! Materials for the 2020 Interim and Formative Assessment Training Series

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 108 – September 18, 2020

  • Lexile® and Quantile® Measures Available Soon to Support Students Learning
  • Don’t Forget! Register for the 2020 Virtual CAC
  • Alternate ELPAC
  • Update on the National Assessment of Educational Progress

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 107 – September 11, 2020

  • LEA CAASPP Coordinators: Register for September Webinar About CAA 1 Percent Survey
  • Register Now! Remote Administration of Interim Assessments—Shared Practices Webinar
  • Renowned Educator Douglas Fisher to Speak at 2020 CAC
  • Reminder―CAASPP and ELPAC “Get Involved” Web Pages!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 106 – September 4, 2020

  • Test Administration Guidelines Now Available!
  • Attention LEA Staff Trainers: Register for the 2020 Interim and Formative Assessment Training Series
  • New Resource! Smarter Balanced Interim Assessment Item Portal
  • LEA Coordinators: The CDE Wants to Hear from You!
  • Success! At-Home HSE Testing with Online Proctoring

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 105 – August 28, 2020

  • Test Administration Options Guidelines Delayed
  • CAC Scholarship Request Deadline Fast Approaching
  • New Resource! Smarter Balanced Interim Assessment Connections Playlists
  • How to Obtain a Tools for Teachers Account
  • Available Now! 2020–2021 ELPAC Information Guide
  • ELPAC: Answering Your Questions
  • Optional CSA Letter Template for Parents and Guardians
  • Just Posted: Standard Setting Technical Report for the CAST
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 104 – August 21, 2020

  • ELPAC: Answering Your Questions in Detail
  • First Initial ELPAC Student Score Reports Produced for 2020–2021
  • Now Available! 2020–2021 Smarter Balanced Interim Assessments
  • Register Now! Tools for Teachers Shared Practices Webinar
  • September Webinar for the CAA 1 Percent Survey
  • CAC Schedule Now Posted!
  • Reminder: Meeting the California High School Science Testing Requirement

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 103 – August 14, 2020

  • Systems Downtime Reminder—CAASPP and ELPAC
  • Virtual Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting
  • Don’t Forget! Register for the 2020 Virtual CAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 102 – August 7, 2020

  • ELPAC Remote Testing Guidelines Coming Soon!
  • Virtual Conference for Classroom Educators in October

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 101 – July 31, 2020

  • FAQs: English Learner Services During COVID-19
  • Coming in September: Training for New CAASPP Coordinators
  • New: Back to School Assessment Playbook
  • 2020–21 CAA for Science Test Examiner Tutorial Now Available!
  • Updates: National and International Assessments

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 100 – July 24, 2020

  • Distance Learning and Test Administration Options
  • Reporting Fall Administration of ELPAC for Initial Identification and Reclassification of English Learners
  • CAA for Science Preliminary Indicator Communication Toolkit Web Page Updated
  • 2019–2020 CAASPP Results Now Available!
  • 2019–2020 ELPAC Results Now Available
  • Who Met the 2019–2020 High School Science Testing Requirement?

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 99 – July 17, 2020

  • Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting Now Open to All
  • New Coordinator Training WebEx #1—A Deep Dive into Receiving Results
  • ELPAC
  • Smarter Balanced Usability, Accessibility, and Accommodations Guidelines
  • Introducing: The California Assessment Accessibility Resources Matrix

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 98 – July 10, 2020

  • Calling New CAASPP Coordinators: “Welcome WebEx” on July 16
  • Summative ELPAC Fall Administration Coming Soon!
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • ELPAC Webcast Posted
  • New ELPAC Resource Available
  • Tools for Teachers: Two New Demonstration Videos!
  • Heads Up: Deadline for 2019–2020 Interim Assessment Hand Scoring

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 97 – July 7, 2020

  • New Resource! Guidance on Diagnostic and Formative Assessments
  • CALPADS and the ELPAC: Changes
  • Summative ELPAC Question of the Week
  • Interim Assessments: Availability of Remote Administration Extended
  • CAA for Science Administration Planning Guides for 2020–2021 Now Available!
  • Registration Open for High School Equivalency Summer Convenings!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 96 – June 26, 2020

  • COVID-19 and Assessments: FAQs
  •  Low-Cost Professional Development at the 2020 Virtual CAC
  • Initial ELPAC: Answers to Your Questions
  • 2018–19 CAST Results Now Available in CERS

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 95 – June 19, 2020

  • We Are Here to Support You—2020 Virtual CAC!
  • New Call for CAC Presenters
  • Tools for Teachers: Preview Now and Attend Webinar on June 22!
  • WebEx for CALPADS and ELPAC Coordinators Now Posted!
  • Live ELPAC Webcast: Then, Now, and Beyond

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 94 – June 12, 2020

  • Checklist: June 2020 ELPAC Reminders
  • New ELPAC Test Security Affidavit
  • CHSPE Is Back
  • High School Equivalency Tests—At Home
  • Administration of the PFT to Continue
  • Just Posted—CAST Alignment Study Report!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 93 – May 29, 2020

  • Newly Updated Smarter Content Explorer!
  • Webinars for All LEA CAASPP and ELPAC Coordinators in 2020–21

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 92 – May 22, 2020

  • Digital Library Retiring Next Week—Final Chance to Download Your Favorite Resources!
  • WebEx in June for CALPADS and ELPAC Coordinators
  • Just Posted: Two New Web Pages for the Science Assessments!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 91 – May 15, 2020

  • CAASPP Updates on Additional Resources Web Page
  • All Coordinators Webinar from April 21, 2020, Now Posted
  • Preparing for the Alternate ELPAC in 2020–21

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 90 – May 8, 2020

  • National and International Assessments

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 89 – May 1, 2020

  • CDE Committed to Annual California Assessment Conference, 2020
  • Reminder: Interim Assessments Available for Distance Learning
  • Physical Fitness Test
  • Student Test Settings in CALPADS
  • Digital Library Change Coming Soon!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 88 – April 24, 2020

  • North–South Assessment and Accountability Information Meetings, 2020
  • Register Now for the California Assessment Conference, 2020
  • 2020–2021 Initial ELPAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 87 – April 17, 2020

  • Assessment Spotlight Moves from Wednesdays to Fridays
  • Interim Assessments Now Available to LEAs for Distance Learning
  • CAASPP and ELPAC Test Security Updates

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 86 – April 10, 2020

  • Smarter Balanced Interim Assessments for Distance Learning
  • Webinar for Assessment, Accountability, and Dashboard Coordinators
  • Registration Open for 2020 California Assessment Conference
  • Now Available—CAA for Science Practice Test Scoring Guides
  • Recent Improvements to CAASPP Web Pages!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 85 – March 20, 2020

  • Update on COVID-19 and the Suspension of Statewide Testing
  • High School Equivalency Summer Convenings in August
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 84 – March 11, 2020

  • California Spanish Assessment Administration Is Under Way!
  • New ELPAC Video Resource!
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 83 – March 5, 2020

  • WebEx for All CAASPP and ELPAC Coordinators—Are You Registered?
  • Coronavirus
  • CAST Practice and Training Test Scoring Guides Available!
  • CAST: Available Resources Flyer Updated!
  • CAST Performance Charts Added to CAST Results
  • This Month’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“Navigating the Fundamentals of Research”
  • Age Twenty-Two and the ELPAC
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • Guidance for Analyzing CSA Results
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 82 – February 27, 2020

  • Summative ELPAC Administration Under Way!
  • ELPAC Question of the Week
  • California Spanish Assessment: Materials Available in TOMS
  • New Resource for the CSA
  • California Science Test Release Resources Posted!
  • Register Your Eligible Students for the Alternate Assessments
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 81 – February 20, 2020

  • Save the Date! 2020 North–South Assessment Information Meetings
  • Educators Needed for 2020 Smarter Balanced Assessment Development Activities
  • Next Month: WebEx for All CAASPP and ELPAC Coordinators
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 80 – February 12, 2020

  • California Science Test and California Spanish Assessment: 2018–19 Summary Results
  • Seeking Educators for CAA Item Writer Workshop
  • ELPAC––New Resource!
  • Plan Now to Attend the 2020 California Assessment Conference
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 79 – February 6, 2020

  • February’s Featured Digital Library Resource: “I Can Divide!”
  • Registration Still Open for New Coordinator WebEx!
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 78 – January 30, 2020

  • Release of New Smarter Balanced Sample Items and Annotated Anchors Next Week
  • Now Available: 2019–2020 Interim Assessment User Guide
  • ELPAC––Fee-based Services Coming Soon!
  • Constructed-Response Items for the California Spanish Assessment Coming Soon!
  • Alternate Assessments
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 77 – January 23, 2020

  • Now Available: CAASPP and ELAPC TOMS User Guide
  • Are Your Grade Eight and High School Students Ready to Take the CAST?
  • Reminders for Those Administering Science Assessments to High School Students!
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 76 – January 16, 2020

  • Interim Assessment Video Series Updated!
  • Summit in February: Innovating for Equity

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 75 – January 9, 2020

  • Calendar Reminder: CAASPP and ELPAC System Downtime Fast Approaching
  • Coming in February: WebEx for New Coordinators
  • Release of Results for the 2018–19 California Science Test and California Spanish Assessment
  • California Alternate Assessment for Science: The Time Is Now!
  • Save the Date for the 2020 California Assessment Conference
  • January’s Featured Digital Library Resource: “Closing the Story!”

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 74 – December 18, 2019

  • Updated Quick Reference Guides

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 73 – December 11, 2019

  • Resources for the 2019–20 CAASPP and ELPAC Now Available
  • Opportunity to Participate in CAASPP Case Study!
  • California Educator Reporting System: Key Resources
  • ELPAC—Remember to Update Students’ English Language Acquisition Status!
  • Summative ELPAC Kindergarten Through Grade Two Test Materials Ordering

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 72 – December 4, 2019

  • Summative ELPAC Assessment Results in the California Educator Reporting System
  • December’s Featured Digital Library Resource for Professional Learning—“Understanding the Formative Assessment Process”
  • Check Them Out! New ELPAC Accessibility Resources
  • Alternate ELPAC: Looking Ahead
  • New CAA for Science Performance Task Video!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 71 – November 20, 2019

  • Watch and Learn with the Interim Assessment Video Series!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 70 – November 13, 2019

  • Updated California Science Test Practice and Training Tests Now Available!
  • 2018–19 ELPAC Results Coming Soon!
  • Reminders: 1.0 Percent Justification Survey and IEPs
  • Attention New LEA Coordinators!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 69 – November 6, 2019

  • Attention All LEAs: 1.0 Percent Justification Survey Deadline Extended!
  • November’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“We Have the Same Birthday”

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 68 – October 30, 2019

  • Science Assessment Implementation Modules!
  • Reminder—Smarter Content Explorer Now Available
  • 1.0 Percent Justification Survey Deadline Extended

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 67 – October 23, 2019

  • Updated Science Web Pages with Links to New Resources
  • New from the Winners of the “Science! It’s Elementary” Contest: Elementary Science Resources

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 66 – October 16, 2019

  • Registration Open for 2019–20 Pretest Workshop!
  • Newly Updated! Matrix Four: ELPAC Accessibility Resources
  • Computer-Based ELPAC Field Test
  • ELPAC Question of the Week

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 65 – October 9, 2019

  • 2018–19 Results Release
  • First Operational CAA for Science: Time to Register All Eligible Students!
  • Updated Periodic Table and Reference Sheet for CAST
  • High School Science Participation Reports Available in TOMS!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 64 – October 2, 2019

  • Registration Closing Soon for 2019 California Assessment Conference!
  • October’s Featured Digital library Resource: “Juicy Introductions to Start Your Narrative—Delectable Beginnings to Start Your Story”
  • Smarter Balanced Digital Library Connections Playlists for Focused Interim Assessment Blocks

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 63 – September 25, 2019

  • Learn More About Smarter Balanced Assessments with the Smarter Content Explorer!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 62 – September 18, 2019

  • Survey for LEA Coordinators!
  • Assessment Information Meeting Materials Now Posted
  • CAASPP and ELPAC Results and Permanent Student Records
  • Check Them Out! Interim Assessment Resources for Educators
  • Remedies for Missing Addresses on Initial ELPAC SSRs

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 61 – September 11, 2019

  • Single Sign-on for CAASPP and ELPAC Online Components!
  • Coming on September 17: Webinar for New LEA Coordinators
  • Updated Science Test Administration for High School Students Flyer
  • 2019–20 CAA Test Examiner Tutorial—Now Available for CAA for Science
  • New CAA for Science Practice Tests Posted!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 60 – September 4, 2019

  • This Month’s Featured Digital Library Resource: “Find My Equation”

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 59 – August 28, 2019

  • 2019–20 LEA CAASPP Coordinator Checklist!
  • New CDE Alternate ELPAC Web Page
  • Posted: 2019–20 ELPAC Information Guide
  • ELPAC Test Security Affidavit for Non-TOMS Users Now Available

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 58 – August 21, 2019

  • New Video! Science: It’s Elementary
  • Downtime Starts Next Week for CAASPP and ELPAC Online System Components
  • CAA Guidance on Assessing Students Using Eye Gaze—Just Updated!
  • Alternate Assessments

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 57 – August 14, 2019

  • New School Year, New Planning to Do: Interim Assessment Overview and Blueprints
  • Reminder: Complete All Hand Scoring for Interim Assessments Before System Downtime
  • Accessibility
  • ELPAC––Last Chance to Participate in Field Test!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 56 – August 7, 2019

  • Downtime for CAASPP and ELPAC Online System Components
  • NEW! Interim Assessment Reporting System Sandbox Training Tool
  • August’s Featured Digital Library Resource: “Get in Order! Using Transition Words in Narrative Writing”
  • 2018–19 Science Assessment Scores: When Will They Be Released?
  • Training Opportunity for New LEA Coordinators

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 55 – July 31, 2019

  • Accessing Individual Student Score Reports in TOMS
  • California Alternate Assessment for Science Preliminary Indicator Communication Toolkit Web Page—Just Updated!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 54 – July 17, 2019

  • Needed: California Special Education Teachers with CA NGSS Knowledge for Alignment Process
  • Preparing for the 2019–20 CAA for Science—Version Assignments and Administration Planning Guides Posted!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 53 – July 10, 2019

  • New Coordinator Webinar on July 16
  • New Coordinator Training Continuing at Assessment Information Meeting
  • August Standard Setting for the CSA: Sign Up by July 19
  • Updated Digital Library Connections Playlists: Time-Saving Tools for Teachers
  • Just Posted: California Science Test Item Specifications!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 52 – July 3, 2019

  • July’s Featured Digital Library Resource: “An Interview with Margaret Heritage, Formative Assessment Guru”
  • More Summertime Formative Assessment Training
  • Grade Two Diagnostic Testing—Change in Reporting

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 51 – June 26, 2019

  • CAASPP Post-Test Guide Available on CAASPP Portal
  •  “The Results Are In … Now What?” Webcast Now Available!
  • Attention New LEA Coordinators: Register Now for In-Person Training
  • Initial ELPAC Testing Window Closes June 28
  • Smarter Balanced Members Vote to Approve Updates to UAAG

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 50 – June 19, 2019

  • MyTOMS Is Coming!
  • Calendar Reminder: ELPAC System Downtime Fast Approaching
  • SBE June Memorandum Regarding the ELPAC Posted for Public Viewing
  • CAA for Science Preliminary Indicators and Scale Scores—What Is the Difference?

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 49 – June 12, 2019

  • Welcome, New CAASPP and ELPAC Coordinators
  • Registration Still open for the 2019 Summer Institute!
  • Webinar in July for New LEA Coordinators
  • 2019 North-South Meetings: Registration Now Open
  • Reminders for the California Alternate Assessment for Science!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 48 – June 5, 2019

  • June’s Featured Digital Library Resource: “Breaking Spaghetti”
  • Closing Out This Year’s Summative ELPAC
  • Field-Testing the New Computer-Based ELPAC
  • California Spanish Assessment

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 47 – May 29, 2019

  • ELPAC Administrations Winding Down

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 46 – May 22, 2019

  • CAST Braille Scoring Guides are Now Available!
  • Does My High School Student Need to Take the California Alternate Assessment for Science?
  • Summative ELPAC Materials Return

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 45 – May 15, 2019

  • Using the LEA Dashboard to Monitor Test Administration Windows and Scoring Percentages
  • Year-End Reminders for the ELPAC
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 44 – May 8, 2019

  • Focus on Test Security—Invalidation Appeal FAQs
  • Spotlight on Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 43 – May 2, 2019

  • New for Families: Starting Smarter Websites
  • Coming Soon! Focused Interim Assessment Blocks
  • May’s Featured Digital Library Resource: “Cranky Counterclaims”
  • California Science Test—Key Messages Now Available!
  • New CAST Item Specifications Flyer
  • Keeping ELPAC Test Materials Safe and Secure
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 42 – April 25, 2019

  • New for CAASPP and ELPAC: “Get Involved” Web Pages!
  • Focus on Test Security—Pause Rules and Grace Period Extensions
  • New Video––ELPAC Accessibility Resources
  • Reminder: Registration Is Open for 2019 Summer Institute!
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 41 – April 17, 2019

  • Focus on Test Security—What Happens After I Submit My STAIRS Appeal?
  • Registration Now Open for the 2019 Summer Institute!
  • Get Involved! CAA for ELA “Second Score” Research Study
  • California Spanish Assessment
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Update, Issue 40 – April 10, 2019

  • Do I Really Need an Appeal? (And What Not to Report in STAIRS)
  • Updated Available Resources Flyers for Science Are Here!
  • Initial and Summative ELPAC: Important Dates
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 39 – April 4, 2019

  • Register Now for 2019 California Assessment Conference Early Bird Special!
  • Focus on Test Security—STAIRS Delayed Appeals
  • April’s Featured Digital Library Resource: “Problem Solving—Dill’er Up 3-Acts Math Lesson”
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 38 – March 28, 2019

  • Completion Status Reports for the CAASPP Administration
  • Braille Operational CAST Available Next Week!
  • All About Accessibility
  • Updated Data Dictionary for Interim Assessment Reporting System Exports
  • ELPAC––Superintendent Designation Forms
  • Register for 2018–19 Post-Test Workshops
  • CAASPP and ELPAC Coordinators: Save the Date! 2019 Assessment Information Meetings

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 37 – March 21, 2019

  • Focus on Test Security—Entering an Incident on the STAIRS Form
  • Now Posted: California Science Test Webcast!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 36 – March 13, 2019

  • California Science Test: Item Specifications Available!
  • Focus on Test Security—Overview of the STAIRS/Appeals Process
  • ELPAC Domain Information Sheets Now Available in Spanish!
  • Summative ELPAC Test Administration
  • All About Accessibility
  • 2019 California Assessment Conference: Registration Opens Friday

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 35 – March 6, 2019

  • CAASPP Manuals for a Successful Administration!
  • Focus on Test Security: New STAIRS/Appeals Process
  • This Month’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“Determining Word Meanings Using an Excerpt from ‘Charles’ by Shirley Jackson”
  • Next Generation Science Standards: Three-Dimensional Learning Is a SNAP!
  • Reminder: Science Reference Tools Available
  • All About Accessibility
  • California Spanish Assessment

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 34 – February 27, 2019

  • New Video—California Science Test and the Next Generation Science Standards!
  • More About the CAST: Planning Your Pause Points
  • All About Accessibility
  • New At-a-Glance Resource for Smarter Balanced Practice Tests, Training Tests, and Interim Assessments!
  • Summative ELPAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 33 – February 20, 2019

  • There’s Still Time to Submit Entries for Science: It’s Elementary!
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 32 – February 13, 2019

  • Now Available! 2018–19 CAASPP and ELPAC Pretest Workshop Materials
  • ELPAC—Testing Irregularities and Security Breaches
  • All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 31 – February 7, 2019

  • State Assessment Apportionment System
  • Translations of Parent Notification Letter Template Available!
  • This Month’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“5th Graders Analyzing Text: Text Talk Time”
  • All About Accessibility
  • ELPAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 30 – January 30, 2019

  • Electronic Student Score Reports Coming Soon!
  • Save the Date: CAST Training Webcast in February
  • Test Examiner Tutorial Now Available for CAA for Science
  • Science and Assessment Contest for K–5 Teachers!
  • All About Accessibility
  • ELPAC––Updated Resource
  • Educators Needed for Alternate ELPAC Development Activities in 2019

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 29 – January 23, 2019

  • Educators Needed for Assessment Development Activities
  • Updated CAASPP Resources
  •  All About Accessibility

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 28 – January 17, 2019

  • Assignment of Designated Supports and Accommodations—Data Posted
  • All About Accessibility
  • CAST Practice Tests in Braille Are Here!
  • CAA for Science Administration Planning Guides Posted!
  • 2019 California Assessment Conference

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 27 – January 10, 2019

  • State Assessment Apportionment System
  • Updated Web Page and New Resources Available!
  • Now Posted: California Alternate Assessment for Science Webcast!
  • ELPAC: Summative ELPAC Test Administration Manual Coming Soon!
  • California Spanish Assessment: Practice Tests Now Available
  • Reminder: Administrator Resources Available for the Interim Assessment Reporting System
  • CAASPP Regulations Public Comment Period Open

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 26 – December 26, 2018

  • Calendar Reminder: CAASPP and ELPAC System Downtime Fast Approaching
  • This Month’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“Sticky Note Graphs”
  • ELPAC Rotating Score Validation Process Corrections
  • California High School Proficiency Exam
  • Physical Fitness Test

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 25 – December 19, 2018

  • For Kids, By Kids Video Contest Winners

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 24 – December 12, 2018

  • New Resources for the ELPAC!
  • ELPAC Regulations: Domain Exemptions and Alternate Assessments
  • Initial ELPAC Threshold Scores Review
  • ELPAC Rotation Score Validation Process
  • California Spanish Assessment––New Resource Available!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 23 – December 5, 2018

  • Mark Your Calendar: CAA for Science Webcast Next Week!
  • December’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“How Can I Trust You? Ways to Evaluate Source Credibility”

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 22 – November 28, 2018

  • California Science Test Classroom Resources Now Available!
  • Interim Assessments and Digital Library: New Video for Staff
  • Reminder: Educator Feedback Needed for New IABs

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 21 – November 21, 2018

  • Opportunity for Classroom Teachers to Provide Input on Design of New Interim Assessment Blocks
  • CDE Seeking Input from California Science Educators

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 20 – November 15, 2018

  • California’s Science Tests—Are You Ready to Assess Your High School Students?
  • California Spanish Assessment Data Review Meeting––Educator Participation Makes a Difference!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 19 – November 7, 2018

  • They’re Here—New Practice and Updated Training Tests for the California Science Test!
  • Online Training Performance Task for California Alternate Assessment for Science
  • New Feature for Summative ELPAC Eligibility Report
  • November’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“Systems of Equations Class Debate”

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 18 – October 31, 2018

  • ELPAC Summary Reports Released
  • New Resource Offers Guidance on the ELPAC!
  • In the Loop: Updating LEA ELPAC Contact Information
  • We Asked, and You Responded!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 17 – October 24, 2018

  • New! Guide for Using Completion Status and Roster Management Systems
  • Updated Accessibility Resource Now Available for Science
  • Video Contest—Keep Those Votes Coming!
  • California Spanish Assessment
  • ELPAC Guidance
  • ELPAC Question Corner

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 16 – October 17, 2018

  • Coordinator Survey: Share Your Feedback!
  • New English-Spanish Glossary Available

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 15 – October 10, 2018

  • Updated Digital Library Playlists
  • Accessibility
  • ELPAC Search Function Now Available!
  • ELPAC: Use of Preliminary Scoring Rubrics in TOMS During CALPADS Downtime
  • ELPAC Development—Opportunity for Educators!
  • More Resources for the ELPAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 14 – October 3, 2018

  • This Month’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“Using Rubrics to Improve Student Writing”
  • Now Posted: Webinar About the ELPAC and CALPADS Data!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 13 – September 26, 2018

  • Update: Planned CALPADS Downtime Extended
  • New Look for Testing Web Pages
  • For Kids, By Kids Video Contest: Voting Is Open
  • 2018–19 CAASPP Interim Assessment User Guide Now Available
  • Updated High School Science Test Administration Resource––Now Available!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 12 – September 19, 2018

  • New Two-Step Authentication Logon Process for TOMS
  • Reminder: Planned CALPADS Downtime for System Updates
  • New Manuals for the Summative Assessments
  • Accessibility
  • CSA Field Test Under Way
  • CSA Data Review Meeting This Fall
  • New ELPAC Resource
  • ELPAC Student Data Extract Report Coming Soon!
  • ELPAC Question Corner

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 11 – September 12, 2018

  • Planned CALPADS Downtime for System Updates
  • CAASPP Institute—Register Now for a Fantastic Professional Development Opportunity!
  • ELPAC––Important Updates

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 10 – September 5, 2018

  • All Systems “GO!” for CAASPP Online Components
  • Interim Assessments
  • This Month’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“Formative Assessment Quotes”
  • Coming Right Up: 2018 North-South Meeting!
  • ELPAC Matrix 4 Updated!
  • No English Learners? ELPAC Coordinator Designation Still Required
  • ELPAC Question Corner
  • California Spanish Assessment Field Test: Resources Available

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 9 – August 29, 2018

  • Step Right Up: Training for New ELPAC Coordinators Next Month
  • Reminder—Professional Learning Opportunity for Science Teachers: CAST Academy
  • ELPAC Development Activities: Opportunities for Educators
  • ELPAC Question Corner

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 8 – August 22, 2018

  • Downtime for CAASPP Online System Components
  • CAST Academy, October 2018!
  • Calculating Preliminary Initial ELPAC Scores
  • New ELPAC Resources!
  • ELPAC/CALPADS Webinar
  • ELPAC Question Corner

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 7 – August 15, 2018

  • Save the Date: 2018 North-South Meeting in September
  • Social Media: Check Us Out!
  • Smarter Balanced Sample Items Website
  • Accessibility
  • California Spanish Assessment–Field Test Nearing
  • Amended Emergency ELPAC Regulations
  • ELPAC Question Corner

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 6 – August 8, 2018

  • Gearing Up for the New School Year: Key Features of the Interim Assessment Reporting System
  • CAASPP Institute: Calling All Teachers!
  • Accessibility
  • ELPAC Training This Fall
  • Start the New School Year with New ELPAC Resources

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 5 – August 1, 2018

  • August’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“Exploring Pi with ‘Sir Cumference'"
  • ELPAC Question Corner
  • Invitation to LEAs: Field-Testing the California Spanish Assessment

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 4 – July 25, 2018

  • ELPAC – A Round of Applause for Use of the Local Scoring Tool!
  • Initial ELPAC Parent Notification Translations Now Available

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 3 – July 18, 2018

  • 2017–18 CAASPP Administration Closes on Successful Note
  • Sample CAASPP Student Score Reports and Guides to the Reports
  • More Progress for ELPAC!

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 2 – July 11, 2018

  • Notes on the ELPAC

Assessment Spotlight, Issue 1 – July 5, 2018

  • New Name for the CAASPP Update
  • July’s Featured Digital Library Resource—“Inferencing: Drawing Conclusions in an Informational Text”
Questions:   California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress Office | caaspp@cde.ca.gov | 916-445-8765
Last Reviewed: Tuesday, January 17, 2023
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