District outlines NJSLA adaptive field test, K–3 literacy screening and parent communications

Assistant Superintendent Laura Doxa delivered a report on assessments and literacy screening, telling the board the district held professional learning for staff and is preparing to field-test the state's adaptive NJSLA and NJGPA platforms.

Doxa said the statewide testing window runs from Oct. 17 through Nov. 14 and that the district’s field test is not adaptive but is intended to evaluate item quality and clarity ahead of the adaptive rollout. She said the field test will not produce individual student or school score reports; it is primarily an experience for students and a data-gathering exercise.

The district will target grades 3 through 9 for the NJSLA adaptive field test and grades 11–12 for NJGPA adaptive components, while administering tests aligned to prior grade-level/course content. Doxa emphasized that the state is releasing guidance frequently and that implementing accommodations and modifications (for example, extended time) places a substantial logistical burden on principals and staff.

On literacy, Doxa said New Jersey now requires literacy screenings for kindergarten through third grade. The district uses AIMSweb Plus for screening, completed a first benchmark round and plans a midyear screening in January. Parents of K–3 students will receive explanatory letters and secure score reports via ParentSquare in the coming days that outline the measure, what information parents will receive and supports available if students need intervention.

No formal board action was required; the report was informational.