Smarter Balanced Assessment- Supporting Your Student’s Best Effort

The Smarter Balanced Assessment measures academic progress in ELA, Math, and, for 8th graders, Science. Testing at Pine Lake Middle School follows this schedule: 

• Grades 6, 7, and 8 : April 28, 29 and May 1 

• 8th Grade Science (WCAS): May 8

Testing Details: 

• Testing begins at 8:25 AM and typically ends by 10:25 AM. 

• Students should bring wired headphones (if available) and a book for early finishers. Headphones will be provided by the school if a student does not have their own.

How Parents Can Help 

The Night Before: 

• Ensure your child charges their laptop. 

• Encourage a good night’s sleep and maintain normal routines. 

• Stay positive and help them feel confident. 

The Morning Of: 

• Allow extra time to avoid rushing. 

• Provide a nutritious breakfast to support focus. 

• Remind them to do their best and stay positive. 

After the Test: 

• Talk about how they felt and what they learned. 

• Reinforce that test results don’t define them—it’s just one way to show progress. 
  Thank you for your support in helping students succeed!