Weekly Updates March 2024
IAR Information
Every year, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) administers federally-required state assessments that help us gauge how our students are growing academically compared to their peers across the state. These tests also help us determine where additional supports and resources are needed in our schools.
This spring, your child will take the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR), which measures student mastery of the Illinois Learning Standards in English language arts/literacy and mathematics in grades 3–8. The District testing window is March 4–April 19, 2024. Decatur will administer the test:
- Grades 6 through 8 March 12 - March 14
- Grades 3 through 5 March 19 - March 21
- Makeups will start after spring break
Children cannot study for a standardized assessment like they would for a regular classroom test, but there are ways you can help your student prepare to do their best:
- Ensure your child attends school regularly so that they don’t miss out on important instruction
- Speak with your child about testing so that they understand why doing their best is important
- Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep the night before the assessment
- Ensure your child arrives to school on time on the day of the assessment
- Remind your child to take their time, listen to and read all directions, and tackle one question at a time
- Help your child maintain a positive mindset by reminding them of their strengths and accomplishments
- Review the Student Readiness Tools to gain familiarity with the testing experience. https://srt.testnav.com/psrt/psrt.html
We are committed to your child’s academic success. Please reach out to Lizzie Martino, [email protected] with any questions about this assessment.
Week of March 4th-8th
Week of March 18-22