Dear DCPS Parents and Guardians,
In a few weeks, your child will be taking the DC Comprehensive Assessment System (DC CAS). I want to share with you some information about these tests.
The DC CAS assesses:
· Students in grades 3-8 and 10 in reading and math
· Students in grade 9 in reading
· Students in grades 5 and 8 in science
· Students in grades 4, 7, and 10 in composition
· Students in high school in biology
The DC CAS plays a critical role in how we measure student achievement and how we ensure that students are learning the skills they need to succeed.
Why we use the DC CAS
We use the DC CAS as one of many tools to measure how much students have learned and how well schools are doing to help them learn. A good objective assessment is an important part of a strong school program, and the DC CAS has been proven to be a fair and robust measure of how well we are doing. The DC CAS measures mathematics, reading and science content knowledge, as well as writing and critical thinking skills. The results from this assessment are used to help meet the needs of your child in the classroom. The results also provide you with specific areas of focus to discuss with your child’s teachers, and to support your child at home.
What you can do to help your child on the DC CAS
· Make sure that your children arrive at school on time on test days (April 4-14).
· Make sure they get to bed at a reasonable time and getting enough sleep.
· Make sure they are eating healthy, balanced meals.
· Get them excited about doing their best! This test is not about raising children’s anxiety levels, but rather motivating them to show us how much they have learned. Encourage them to showcase their best efforts!
· If you would like to attend a parent information session about the DC CAS, please visit www.dcps.dc.gov/DCPS/DCCAS for more information.
Thank you for your support, and for encouraging your children to show us what they know this month!
Sincerely,
Kaya Henderson
Acting Chancellor
