Springfield Local to administer third-grade Ohio State tests on paper in 2026–27

The Springfield Local School Board voted to administer third-grade Ohio State assessments in English language arts and mathematics using paper-and-pencil forms for the 2026–27 school year, saying the decision responds to developmental considerations and aims to support student performance.

A district presenter told the board the state permits districts to choose testing modality at third grade and that administrators and third-grade teachers recommended paper-and-pencil testing because younger students may find the computer interface more challenging and teacher reviewers noted legibility concerns for extended responses. The presenter said third-grade testing will include bubbling and written extended responses, and that kindergarten through second-grade instruction will emphasize handwriting to prepare students for legible responses.

Trustees voted unanimously to approve the recommendation. Board discussion included questions about whether responses are bubbled or written and confirmation that the district will administer tests in both fall and spring windows where required.

The decision affects third-grade assessment procedures and classroom preparation; the administration said principals and teachers will receive information and guidance for the fall implementation and that the district will monitor results and classroom readiness going forward. The board did not receive any public comments related to the testing item during the meeting.

Implementation tasks recorded in the meeting include notifying third-grade teachers and principals of the testing format and coordinating K–2 handwriting emphasis ahead of the testing windows.