WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE NJGPA?
The New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA) consists of an ELA and a mathematics component to be administered to students in grade 11 for the purpose of meeting the state graduation assessment requirement.
This computer-based assessment is aligned with New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS) for grade 10 ELA, Algebra I, and Geometry.
GRADUATION ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS
This document outlines the New Jersey graduation assessment requirements, focusing on the NJGPA-Adaptive (NJGPA-A) and pathways for the Classes of 2026 and 2027.
NJGPA-Adaptive Overview:
State statute requires the state graduation proficiency assessment to be administered to all grade 11 students.
NJGPA-A measures graduation readiness in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics.
The ELA component is aligned to grade 10 standards.
The mathematics component is aligned to Algebra I and Geometry standards.
For NJGPA-A and NJSLA-A unit test times, please visit the Unit Testing Times section of the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments-Adaptive and New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment-Adaptive webpage.
NJGPA BREAKDOWN - NUMBER OF UNITS
NOTE: ELA-Reading, ELA-Writing, and Mathematics each consist of one unit. Unit times do not include the recommended 25 to 30 minutes for logging students on, reading directions to students from the test administrator script, and logging students off.
PRACTICE TESTS AND TUTORIALS
Explore a range of valuable resources, including practice tests, tutorials, and more, designed to empower educators in effectively preparing students for testing.
The New Jersey Parent Portal provides parents and guardians online access to how their child performed on the New Jersey assessments. After creating and confirming your account, you’ll be able to log in to the Portal and enter a code found on the paper copy of your student’s Individual Student Report (ISR) to view your student’s test results and explanatory information.
HOW THE DISTRICT PREPARES STUDENTS
It is important to note, our district-approved curriculum is standards-aligned, therefore, our students are constantly being exposed to test content. Here are some of the key ways we support our students in readiness for these assessments:
Embedded Test Prep Material: Rather than treating test preparation as a separate activity, we seamlessly integrate test prep material into our regular instruction.
Direct Cumulative Instruction: We provide focused instruction in test preparation materials for English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics.
Tech Practice: Familiarity with the testing platform is crucial for success in computer-based assessments. Therefore, we ensure that students have ample opportunities to practice navigating the testing platform by administering practice tests.
Testing Mindset Work: We recognize the importance of fostering a positive mindset towards testing. Our educators work with students to develop strategies for managing test anxiety, building confidence, and maintaining focus during testing sessions.
WAYS PARENTS CAN HELP PREPARE THEIR CHILDREN
As partners in your child's education, your support plays a crucial role in their preparation for state testing. Here are five effective ways you can help your child excel:
Engage in low key conversations: Have a brief chat with your children a day or two before the test, noting the dates provided by the school district. Keep it light, explaining that the tests help in learning but don't affect grades.
Create a Positive Testing Environment: Create a quiet and comfortable environment at home for studying and completing practice tests.
Promote Healthy Habits: Ensure your child gets plenty of rest, eats nutritious meals, and engages in physical activity leading up to the test.
Celebrate Effort and Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your child's efforts and progress throughout the preparation process. Recognizing their hard work and achievements fosters a growth mindset and motivates continued effort (Dweck, 2006).
By implementing these strategies, you can help instill confidence, reduce anxiety, and support your child's success in state testing and beyond.
Additional resources for parents and families is available in the New Jersey Assessments Resource Center.