Students at Windsor Charter Academy will be taking their Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) tests in April! CMAS tests are meaningful and relevant assessments that support rigorous academic standards. The state’s summative tests measure students’ mastery of grade-level standards and growth over time. In addition, these assessments measure students’ critical thinking skills that are needed to be successful in school and in life.

Standardized test scores are frequently used to determine placement in advanced courses/programs and to identify instructional needs of students. COVID-19 has directly impacted student learning in a variety of ways. It is now more important than ever for WCA to assess students’ progress towards mastery of grade-level standards. All testing data will help inform teachers as they work with students to prepare them for the next school year.

We recently received some important news about how we will administer the state CMAS assessments this spring. Given the challenges created by COVID, the state legislature and U.S. Department of Education have reduced the number of tests required to just one test for students in either English language arts (ELA) or math and two tests for eighth graders (math and science). Students in high school will take the PSAT or SAT. Tests will be given as follows:

ELA tests: Grades 3,5,7
Math tests: Grades 4,6,8
Science tests: Grade 8
PSAT: Grades 9 and 10
SAT: Grade 11

While only one test in ELA or math is required, Windsor Charter Academy parents of students in grades 3-8 can choose to have their child take both the ELA and math tests by opting their child in for a second test. If you would like to opt your child in for the additional CMAS assessment, please complete this CMAS Assessment Opt In Parent Form by April 7. Parents can learn more about test time/duration here.

Student’s individual score reports are expected to be available in August. Consistent with typical years, state level results are expected to be announced by the Colorado Department of Education at that time.

Elementary School CMAS Testing Dates

To ensure students take each test, please make every effort to schedule appointments outside of these testing windows.

3rd Grade
- ELA: April 13th, 14th, and 15th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:40 a.m.
- Opt-In Only for Math: April 20th, 21st, and 22nd from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

4th Grade
- Math: April 13th, 14th, and 15th from 12:55 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.
- Opt-In Only for ELA: April 20th, 21st, and 22nd from 12:50 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

5th Grade
- ELA: April 13th, 14th, and 15th from 8:20 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
- Opt-In Only for Math: April 20th, 21st, and 22nd from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

For questions, please reach out to Jessica Wilson, Elementary School Assistant Principal.