Important Spring Assessments:

Many important upcoming assessments are just around the corner. This year there are a few changes to the types of tests and testing format.

* FCAT reading for the spring of 2011 will remain in the pencil/paper format.

* FCAT Math and End of Course Exams will be computer-based.

Please note students will still be permitted to use the provided handheld calculator, pencil and scrap paper to assist with the new test format transition, although the program provides those tools as well.

*9th grade students who are currently enrolled, or took Algebra 1, Algebra 1 Honors, of Algebra 1B during the 2010-2011 school year will take the Algebra End of Course Exam.

* Citrus was selected to be the field test school for the Biology End of Course Exam. This will be administered to students who completed or are currently taking Biology 1 or Biology 1 honors during the 2010-2011 school year.

The testing schedule is listed below. Notice several test dates indicates testing windows rather than a specific test date. These testing windows are designed to accommodate our students in the computer labs. If you have any questions regarding testing, please do not hesitate to contact Laura Aguilera at 726-2241, ext.274.

· March 1st - FCAT Writing (10th grade)

· March 30th- FCAT Reading Retakes (11th and 12th grade students who have not yet passed the FCAT Reading Assessment)

· March 31st- FCAT Math Retake window begins (11th and 12th grade students who have not yet passed the FCAT Math Assessment)

· April 11th and 12th – FCAT Reading (9th and 10th grade)

· April 13th- FCAT Science (11th grade)

· April 14th- 21st- FCAT Math Testing Window (10th grade)

· May 2nd-6th and May 9th-13th Advanced Placement (AP) Exams (Students who have completed an Advanced Placement course during the 2010-2011 school year, and those who sign up with Mrs. Aguilera or Mrs. Alvarado and pay to take the exam)

· May 9th-13th – Biology End of Course Field Test (Students who completed or are currently taking Biology 1 or Biology 1 honors during the 2010-2011 school year)

· May 16th-20th – Algebra 1 End of Course Exam (9th grade students who completed or are enrolled in Algebra 1, Algebra 1 Honors, and Algebra 1B during the 2010-2011 school year)



Important Letter to Parents about FCAT

Electronic Devices Parent Memo

Dear Parent/Guardian:

After each FCAT administration, the Florida Department of Education evaluates assessment policies and procedures and implements changes when necessary. Parent awareness and support is a crucial part of the assessment process, and we would like to inform you of an important change that will be in effect during future FCAT administrations, beginning with the Fall 2007 Retake administration.

Students have not historically been permitted to have electronic devices in their possession during testing. However, there has previously been some flexibility regarding the policy, which stated that violation may result in test invalidation. Due to concerns based on recent security violations involving camera phones, the policy has been revised to state that violation will result in test invalidation. If your child is found with an electronic device that reproduces, transmits, calculates, or records (e.g., a cell phone, camera, or pager) in his or her pocket, at his or her desk, or within his or her reach during testing, the test will be invalidated.

It is not our intention to restrict student privileges or alter existing district policies but to work within the framework of existing laws to maintain the security of the FCAT.
When addressing the issue of cell phones, it should be noted that while Section 1006.07(2), Florida Statues, states that "a student may possess wireless communication devices while on school property or at school functions," it also states that "the regulation of when and how such devices may be used during such times may still be determined by the district school board."

As always, it is our goal to keep you well informed as to how you can best support your students to maximize their performance on the FCAT. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your school's guidance office.