PSSAs to begin after spring break for grades 3-8

The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) is an annual exam that tests all students in grades 3-8 in English Language Arts and math, and students in grades 5 and 8 in science. This year, testing will take place in our elementary schools and at the middle school as follows:

Elementary Schools

• ELA Grades 3-5: April 23, 24 & 25
• Math Grades 3-5: April 28 & 29
• Science Grade 5 only: April 30 & May 1

Middle School

• ELA Grades 6-8: April 22, 23 & 25
• Math Grades 6-8: April 28 & 29
• Science Grade 8 only: May 1 & 2

PSSA student scores are used by the district to make informed decisions regarding curriculum and instruction and provide valuable information to assist teachers in supporting student growth. Furthermore, completing the standardized assessment provides valuable practice for college and job placement exams, driver’s license tests, mandatory high school benchmarks, and the myriad other assessments that students will encounter in the future.

For 2025, fifth and eighth grade students will be taking the Science PSSA online using their district iPad. Students should be sure to come to school on Science testing days with a fully charged iPad. All PSSAs will move to a digital format in 2026.

Complete PSSA information including test day resources can be found here and on the state’s website.

Opting Out
Pennsylvania school code requires all students take the PSSAs. However, a parent/guardian may excuse their child(ren) for religious reasons. This is the only basis for a parent/guardian to excuse their child(ren). If you wish to opt out, please read this letter in its entirety. There is a process that must be followed, and an opt out window.