SPRING TESTING SEASON HAS ARRIVED!

From April 14th through May 2nd, school districts in the state of Washington will be administering the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) in Reading, Writing, Math and Science to students in grades 3-5. Each grade level group at the elementary level will take the following tests during this testing window:
Grade 3— Reading & Math
Grade 4—Reading, Writing & Math
Grade 5—Reading, Math & Science

Students do not test every day during the testing window but have specific testing days within that time frame depending on their grade level. The WASL requires students to answer questions, write explanations and/or essays, and explain their reasoning in math and science. Each student’s work is compared to a standard of what students should know and be able to do at their grade level in the state of Washington.

By the fall of 2008, the results of all these tests will be returned to the Riverview School District from the state. At that point, teachers, specialists, and administrators, along with parents and students will review the results with the goal of improving student learning. The results will be
mailed to you at that time (typically in September).

It is important to remember that scores from a test like the WASL cannot replace a teacher’s observations and judgments. However, they can provide useful information to improve student learning. Students should be encouraged to do their best on the WASL. It is important to maintain a typical schedule and atmosphere at home during the testing window, giving extra attention to getting to bed on time and eating a healthy breakfast and lunch.

Appointments, such as orthodontist visits, should be rescheduled if they have been scheduled during the regular school day (9:15-3:25pm). By minimizing outside interruptions to the regular school day, we are maximizing the level of success for all students.

In addition, due to testing security measures parent and/or community volunteers will not be able to work or volunteer directly in the classrooms while a test is being given. Only trained school district employees are permitted to be present in the room during testing. Please check
with your child’s 3rd-5th grade teacher if you are a regular volunteer, to find out how they would like to use your volunteer time during this three
week testing time.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Feel free to contact the school or district office if you have questions about the WASL or testing
process.