Student Assessments

Standardized tests are assessments given to students across the state using the same questions, format, and scoring system. These tests measure how well students are learning grade-level expectations in subjects like English language arts, math, and science. Because they are consistent for all students, they allow educators and families to compare performance across classrooms, schools, and districts.

In Colorado, students in grades 3-8 take the Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) English Language Arts and Math tests. In high school, students in grades 9-11 will take the PSAT and SAT in the same subject areas. Colorado also requires students in grade 5, 8, and 11 to take the CMAS Science test and students in grades 4 and 7 from selected schools will take the CMAS Social Studies test. For details about the tests and grade levels taking each test, visit our Resources for Parents page.

Standardized tests provide one important snapshot of your child’s academic progress. They can help identify strengths, highlight areas where additional support may be needed, and ensure your child is on track for future success. While no single test defines a student, these results help schools make informed decisions about instruction, resources, and support programs.

CMAS (Colorado Measures of Academic Success) is the statewide standardized test required by Colorado and given once a year to measure how students are meeting state standards.

Assessments like Star are interim tests administered three times a year (Fall, Winter, and Spring). The purpose of interim assessments is to monitor student progress, guide instruction, and provide real-time feedback to teachers. In short, CMAS is a summative (end-of-year) measure, while tests like Star provide more formative (on-going) measures to support teaching and learning throughout the year.

Testing time varies by grade level, but for most students, CMAS testing takes place over several days with shorter testing sessions each day. Schools work to minimize disruption by spreading testing out and building in breaks. Overall, standardized testing represents a small portion of the total instructional time across the school year.

Teachers and school leaders use state test results to better understand whether students met grade level expectations at the end of the previous year. Results help identify trends, guide instruction planning, and ensure students receive the right level of challenge and support as they enter the school year. At the district level, results also inform decisions about districtwide programs and resources to support students and schools.

If your child is absent during a scheduled testing session, the school will typically provide a make-up opportunity within the testing window. Schools aim to be flexible and ensure all students who are able to participate have a chance to complete the assessment.

Colorado law allows parents/guardians to exempt their child from participating in standardized testing. To do so, you should notify your child’s school in advance of the testing window by completing the "Parent Exemption from State Assessments" form. Access the form online in the Parent Portal of my.cherrycreekschools.org. See Parent Guides below for more specific instructions.

If you are considering this option, it may be helpful to speak with your child’s teacher or school leader to understand how the decision could impact your child and the school.

Parent Guides for State Assessment Exemption (select your language preference)

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