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Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS)
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Family Information and Resources
2023-24 SBA and WCAS Final Scores (Hard Copy) Update: Spring Score Reports Delayed
Technical issues at the state have delayed Spring 2024 Smarter Balanced Assessment and Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science individual score reports. It is not yet clear when printed individual score reports will be available, but families may review final scores in Home Access Center at any time. A communication will come from your school when score reports are available.
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What is the WCAS?
What is WCAS?
The WCAS is an online science assessment that was administered for the first time in spring 2018. It fulfills the federal requirement (ESSA) that students be tested in science once at each level: elementary, middle, and high school.
The WCAS measures the level of proficiency that Washington students have achieved based on the Washington State K-12 Science Learning Standards (previously known as Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)), which were adopted in October 2013.
Who takes WCAS?
Students in grades 5, 8, and 11.
When is WCAS administered?
The state of Washington established a testing window in the spring. Our district testing schedule is designed to make the best use of student instructional time and use resources efficiently. The daily testing schedule will be 4/8/24-6/7/24.
WCAS scores - what to expect
Watch this brief video to better understand the early years of WCAS scores and how they might affect students. Transcript
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Family Resources
More information from the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction includes:
- WCAS Features - What types of questions and student tools will be included.
- Frequently Asked Questions - Questions and answers about WCAS.
- Next Generation of Science Standards (NGSS) - Description and timeline for implementing the new set of science standards.
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WA-AIM
WA-AIM is the alternative assessment to SBA and WCAS for students with significant cognitive disabilties. This portfolio type is assessment is compiled by case managers for qualifying students. Families of qualifying students will be notified about WA-AIM participation at yearly IEP meetings.
If you have questions about WA-AIM, please speak to your student's case manager.
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Who to contact?
Everett Public Schools WCAS Contact: Quiana Hennigan, Student Assessment Coordinator, 425-385-4057
