The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) includes assessments in English Language Arts and Mathematics which are taken by students in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Students in grades 4 and 8 are administered the Science PSSA.  The English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics PSSAs include items that are consistent with the Assessment Anchors/Eligible Content aligned to the Pennsylvania Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics.  The Science PSSA include items that are aligned to the Assessment Anchors/Eligible Content aligned to the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Science, Technology, Environment and Ecology.

Students across Pennsylvania in grades 3 through 8 are required to take the annual PSSA exams for their grade level during the state-mandated testing window, which runs late April to mid-May.  All public schools in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including Agora, are required to administer the PSSAs.

Thank you to those who were able to participate in the Parent PSSA session.  If you were unable to attend, here’s the recording to view at your convenience.  Click HERE

Resources-Preparing for the Test

The Pennsylvania Dept. of Education has created a new policy regarding cell phones at PSSA testing sites.  If a student brings a cell phone to the testing site, it must be checked in and kept by Agora staff.  Cell phones are not allowed in the possession of the student, whether it is on their person, or in bags or other items accompanying them, during testing.  It is recommended that students leave cell phones at home.

The following forms should be filled out prior to arrival at the site in order to make the sign-in process quicker and easier.  All students must have an Emergency Contact and Health Info form filled out for the site.  If a student in 7th or 8th grade is using public transportation or transporting themselves to the site, they must have a signed and completed Self-transport form with them prior to arrival.  Any students who may need medication during the testing time must turn in a completed Self-administration of Medication form.