On Oct. 18, the state is set to release the public results of the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) from the 2022-23 school year. This article does not aim to compare or examine results in our county but rather to help with reading these results as you receive them for your child, and to understand how you can use them to help your child succeed.

What Is the CAASPP?

The CAASPP is California’s comprehensive assessment system, designed to gauge student achievement in English language arts (ELA), mathematics, and science. This assessment is administered to students in grades 3-8 and 11. 

The CAASPP consists of “computer-based tests,” which is mostly multiple choice, and “performance tasks” that measure a student’s understanding of key concepts and skills such as in writing or more detailed math problems. In ELA, students are tested in four main areas: listening, reading, research, and writing. In mathematics, the test is organized into three main areas: communicating reasoning, concepts and procedures, and problem solving and modeling/data analysis. 

Interpreting CAASPP Scores

CAASPP test scores are reported in terms of scaled scores, performance levels, and achievement levels. Here’s a breakdown of how to interpret them:

Scaled Scores: Scaled scores provide a numeric representation of a student’s performance. They are designed to allow for comparisons across different test forms and years. 

Performance Levels: CAASPP scores are categorized into four performance levels, which describe a student’s overall performance. These performance levels are:

1. Standard Not Met: Students at this level did not demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of the subject matter. 
2. Standard Nearly Met: Students at this level showed some understanding of the subject matter but did not meet the standard. 
3. Standard Met: Students at this level met the required standard and are considered proficient in the subject. 
4. Standard Exceeded: Students at this level went beyond the required standard and demonstrated advanced proficiency in the subject.

Achievement levels are an even broader category that lumps some of the four performance levels. Performance level 1 is considered “below standard,” performance level 2 is “near standard,” and performance levels 3 and 4 are called “at or above standard.”

Taking Action Based on CAASPP Scores

Once you’ve received your student’s CAASPP scores, it’s essential to use this information to guide educational decisions. Here are some steps you can take:

• Review the Report: Carefully review the different subjects provided and score history. Celebrate any improvements with your student. 
• Discuss Results with Teachers: Schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher to discuss the scores. Teachers can offer valuable insights into your child’s strengths and areas in need of improvement.
• Identify Areas of Improvement and Set Goals: Based on the scores, work with teachers and educational professionals to identify specific areas where your child may need extra support in areas that they are not yet meeting standards or enrichment in areas they are exceeding standards.
• Access Additional Resources: If your child’s scores indicate a need for additional support, inquire about available resources, such as tutoring or after-school programs.

You can also access a free educational resource that provides tools like sample test questions by grade and subject areas at https://ca.startingsmarter.org/