On September 25, 2025, the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) convened to discuss the upcoming administration of the STAMP assessment, a critical tool for evaluating language proficiency among students enrolled in dual language immersion programs. The meeting highlighted essential details regarding the assessment's structure, administration timeline, and technical requirements, which are vital for educators and students alike.

The STAMP test, provided by Avant, assesses students in grades 3 through 9 across four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. This assessment not only measures proficiency but also serves as a pathway for students to qualify for the seal of biliteracy. The meeting emphasized the importance of proper scheduling, noting that the testing window will open on October 20 and close on December 12. Educators were reminded to account for holidays and school activities that may impact testing schedules, particularly reserving the last week for makeup tests.

A significant point of discussion was the testing format. The STAMP assessment can be administered in various combinations of skills, with younger students typically tested on two skills, while ninth graders will complete all four. The meeting underscored the necessity for appropriate technology, including headphones and microphones, to ensure a smooth testing experience. Additionally, educators were encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Avant website, which contains crucial resources, including technical support and detailed guides for each skill component.

The meeting also addressed the importance of proper rostering to ensure students are assigned to the correct tests. USBE officials indicated that further guidance on this topic would be forthcoming, urging educators to stay informed and prepared.

In conclusion, the USBE meeting served as a crucial platform for outlining the logistics and expectations surrounding the STAMP assessment. As the testing window approaches, educators are encouraged to engage with the provided resources and plan accordingly to facilitate a successful assessment experience for their students. The emphasis on preparation and understanding of the testing process reflects USBE's commitment to supporting language learners in Utah's dual language immersion programs.