PSSA

The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) is a standard-aligned state  assessment required for every student in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8.  The PSSA includes testing in the areas of English language arts, mathematics and science.  It should be noted that only 5th and 8th graders are tested in science.  Testing takes place during the April timeframe. Please visit the PA Department of Education website for more information for PSSA testing.

Keystones

Keystone Exams are Pennsylvania’s state end‑of‑course assessments designed to measure how well students have mastered key academic standards in three subjects: Algebra I, Literature, and Biology. These exams help schools evaluate student achievement and also meet federal accountability requirements.

Opt-Out Information

Based on Section 4.4 of Title 22, Chapter 4, parents and guardians may choose to review the state assessment testing materials. If a parent or guardian finds the assessment to be in conflict with their religious beliefs, they may choose to opt their student out of taking the assessment.

To review testing materials, parents and guardians must contact their guidance counselor to schedule a review appointment at least two weeks prior to the assessment dates. The Upper Dauphin Area School District will honor inspection requests and follow all guidance shared by the Department of Education. The parent or guardian must sign the Parent Confidentiality Agreement provided by the Department of Education. If a parent or guardian believes the testing materials are in conflict with their religious beliefs, the parent may excuse their student from the assessment with a written request to the building principal.

Additional information about PSSA and Keystone testing will be provided as the testing window gets closer. Please contact your guidance counselor for more information.