These assessments are critical tools used to measure your child's academic growth and English language development over time. They provide our teachers and administrators with the vital, big-picture data needed to personalize instruction, ensure students are mastering grade-level standards, and confirm that every student is on track for college and career readiness.

No. Scores from the CAASPP, ELPAC, NWEA MAP, and Multitudes do not impact your child's class grades. Instead, they are used by teachers and administrators to plan lessons and by the district to understand where our schools need to direct more resources or support.

The vast majority of these assessments are taken digitally on a secure computer or device. They are largely "computer-adaptive," meaning the questions adjust in difficulty based on your child's answers to pinpoint their exact learning level. (Note: A few exceptions exist, such as paper-based writing tests for Kindergarten through 2nd-grade students taking the ELPAC).

Because these tests measure cumulative knowledge and adapt to your child's unique learning level, students cannot "cram" for them. The best way to prepare is by ensuring your child attends school regularly, reads daily at home, gets a full night’s sleep, and eats a healthy breakfast on their testing days.

Yes. All of our testing systems offer built-in accessibility resources and designated supports (such as text-to-speech, extra time, or alternative assessments) based on the specific needs outlined in your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan.

Official score reports are made available to parents and guardians digitally. Once the tests are scored and finalized, you can access your child’s results securely through the VCUSD Aeries Parent Portal.

Yes! For state tests like the CAASPP and ELPAC, families are encouraged to visit the free Starting Smarter website (ca.startingsmarter.org). For district assessments like MAP Growth, parents can utilize the NWEA Family Toolkit. Both resources provide helpful guides, videos, and sample questions to help you understand the data.

Yes! The state provides official Practice and Training Tests online for the CAASPP and ELPAC. Logging in as a "Guest User" to take a practice test together is a great way to help your child get comfortable with the digital tools (like digital highlighters, graphing tools, and typing boxes) before the real test.

Find Practice CAASPP and ELPAC Tests
Explore the NWEA MAP Family Toolkit

Different tests serve different purposes. District assessments like NWEA MAP Growth are taken periodically (fall, winter, and spring) to track continuous progress and help teachers adjust their daily instruction. State tests, like the CAASPP and the Summative ELPAC, are administered once in the spring to provide a comprehensive, end-of-year summary of your child's learning.

Because testing schedules and specific administration dates vary slightly by school site, the best person to contact is your child's teacher, school counselor, or principal. They can provide you with the exact dates and details for your student's upcoming assessments.

View our schools