smarter balanceD state testing

State tests in language arts and math for grades 3-8 and 11

State tests in science for grades 5, 8 and once in high school (10th-12th)

What is Smarter BalanceD testing or SBAC?

Smarter Balanced testing in language arts and math occurs once each school year in the spring. The test is proctored by our wonderful teachers and takes about 2-3 half days to complete. It consists of four separate tests: 2 math tests and 2 language arts tests.

CAASPP/SBAC Practice Test Tutorial

PVL_MathCAT68.mp4

Take a Practice Test

How can I prepare my child for the SBAC?

Take a practice test and learn how to use the universal tools.

Practice typing skills throughout the school year.

Provide instruction based on the I Can Statements found here.

Discuss the importance of the test with your child.

Check out some practice lessons on Starting Smarter.

Take some time to review our CAASPP Test-Taking Skills Resources!

Use resources from the Lexile/Quantile Hub using your student's Lexile/Quantile score from the STAR 360

CPA CAASPP Testing Preparation Resources 2025

CAASPP TEST PREP RESOURCES

We invite you to explore a variety of resources that you will help you prepare your student for CAASPP testing for ELA, Math, and Science. We hope you find something that works for you.

CAA for ELA and Math Fact Sheet.pdf

CALIFORNIA ALTERNATE

ASSESSMENT (CAA) FOR ELA AND MATH

The California Alternate Assessments (CAAs) for ELA and mathematics are part of the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) System. The purpose of the CAAs is to measure what students know and can do. These measures help identify and address gaps in knowledge or skills early so students can receive the support they need.

The CAAs are aligned with alternate achievement standards—called the Core Content Connectors—and linked to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for ELA and mathematics.

The CAAs are for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities and whose individualized education program (IEP) team has designated the use of an alternate assessment on statewide summative assessments.

CDE Guidance regarding SBAC Dashboard Update

As you know, public schools are required to test 95% of students on the SBAC. This is especially important to charter schools, that are dependent on their Dashboard scores to show chartering districts that they are continuing to provide quality academics and programs to their students. This is the updated guidance on how student participation rates affect our State Dashboard:

https://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/cm/documents/aiparticipation23.pdf

If you have any questions, please contact your HST.