Dear Parent(s)/Caregiver(s):
Tonawanda Middle School values the role that multiple assessment measures play in informing quality instruction. The New York State Assessments are one way the district is able to determine student understanding of grade level expectations and standards, and serves as a tool to help us evaluate the rigor and validity of our programs and curriculum. The assessments will be administered on two consecutive school days and will consist of multiple choice questions and both short and extended response questions. The assessments are untimed. Students who do not partake in the assessment, will remain in the classroom setting.
Assessment Dates:
(The assessments will be administered in the morning starting at approximately 8:00 a.m. each day.)
Test | Testing Dates |
Grades 6-8 English Language Arts | April 29th and 30th, 2025 |
Grades 6-8 Mathematics | May 6th and 7th, 2025 |
Grade 8 Science | May 13th, 2025 |
As an instructional community of teachers, administrators, and support personnel, we regularly use this data in professional dialogue when determining the effectiveness of individual lessons, units of study or an entire program. The participation of each student is valued and contributes to a full set of information to be used in improving and aligning our programs and instructional practices to support student growth and achievement.
The teachers need your assistance to provide the best test-taking conditions for your child.
If possible, please do not schedule any vacations, doctor, dentist, orthodontist, or other appointments on testing days.
Please have your child arrive at school on time. Students who arrive late or are absent, will take the make-up test for that session at a later date.
Be sure your child gets a good night’s rest the evening prior to the assessment.
Students should have their device charged and ready to use each day of the assessments.
Should you have questions or concerns about the upcoming New York State Assessments, please feel free to reach out to the MS office at (716) 694-7660.
Sincerely,
Middle School Administration
To download a PDF of this letter, click here: NYS Assessments Parent Letter