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What is Smarter Balanced?
In the 2014-15 school year, Oregon joined twelve other states to use the Smarter Balanced Assessment tests for their mandatory state assessments. These standardized tests assess how well students are mastering content in key subject areas aligned to the Common Core State Standards.
Who takes it?
Students in grades 3-8 and 11 take the Smarter Balanced English language arts (ELA) and math tests.
What does it measure?
The Smarter Balanced English language arts assessment measures how well students have mastered English language arts skills including reading, writing, and critical thinking.
The Smarter Balanced mathematics assessment measures how well students have mastered math skills and concepts.
When is it administered?
Smarter Balanced Assessments are taken in the Spring.
How is it administered?
The Smarter Balanced Assessments are administered online for greater accuracy in scoring and greater range in the types of questions and responses that can be asked and measured.
How are the results used?
The Smarter Balanced results will be used as one way to indicate a student’s progress toward college and career readiness.
Who requires it?
The Smarter Balanced Assessment tests are required at the state level by the Oregon Department of Education.
What if I want to know more about this assessment?
Learn more about the tests at the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium website
Learn about the skills and concepts that the Smarter Balanced Assessment measures at the Common Core State Standards website
What if I don’t want my child to participate in Smarter Balanced?
Parents who wish to opt their student(s) out of Smarter Balanced testing should complete the opt-out form below and return to the school.
2020-2021 English Notification and Opt-Out form (complete and return to school)
2020-21 Spanish Notification and Opt-Out form (complete and return to school)
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