Smarter Balanced Assessments

The math and English/Language arts assessments are called Smarter Balanced Assessments and are aligned to the Common Core State Standards for Math and English/Language Arts. They are administered through a computerized testing system developed by the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC). The Smarter Balanced assessments are administered to students in grades 3 - 8 and grade 11.

Summative academic assessments are required in Oregon public schools. These tests serve as independent, objective measures of how students are doing. Clear, understandable test scores help teachers and parents work together to adjust their approach and better meet student needs. These assessments also provide data that helps determine, for example, what’s working in special education, or whether race- or income-based achievement gaps exist or continue to persist. The assessments also help empower families by providing them with a clear indication of how well their children are progressing toward mastering the academic knowledge and skills necessary for college and career readiness.