Lehi School District replaces outdated reading assessment with CAPT for grades 7 to 12

Central York School District is set to enhance its reading assessment strategy for students in grades 7 to 12 with the introduction of the CAPT assessment, following the discontinuation of the previous Reading Inventory (RI) tool. This decision was made during the Board Curriculum Committee Meeting held on May 5, 2025, where educators discussed the need for a more effective assessment method.

The RI, which had been in use until this year, was unexpectedly phased out, prompting the district to seek a replacement. Nikki Donner, the high school reading specialist, led the initiative to identify a suitable alternative. The CAPT assessment emerged as a superior option, providing not only a Lexile level for students but also a comprehensive evaluation of their reading skills.

The CAPT assessment includes six subtests, focusing on critical areas such as reading efficiency, comprehension, and sentence processing. For the initial implementation at the secondary level, the district will concentrate on the final three subtests, which are essential for determining students' Lexile scores. This new tool will allow educators to better understand student progress and tailor interventions to meet individual needs.

The introduction of the CAPT assessment aligns with the district's strategic plan to standardize assessments across all grade levels, enhancing continuity in educational evaluation. The middle school staff has expressed enthusiasm about this change, as it will facilitate more targeted interventions for students who require additional support.

As Central York School District moves forward with the CAPT assessment, it aims to improve reading outcomes and ensure that all students receive the necessary resources to succeed in their literacy development. This shift represents a significant step in the district's commitment to fostering academic growth and addressing the diverse needs of its student population.