Stacks of classrooms iPads with multi-color cases

Since 2015, Vermont has participated in a state summative assessment known as the SBAC, Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium.  This year our students will sit for a new spring assessment, Cognia.  The spring of 2022 is the last hosting of SBAC in Vermont.  If you would like to know more about the State’s procurement process and rationale for procuring Cognia, please read Secretary French’s memo from March, 2022.

The grade bands to be tested will remain the same, with grades 3-9 taking the English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics assessments, and grades 5, 8, and 11 taking the science assessments with Cognia.  The Vermont Science Assessment (VTSA) that we have previously implemented was not a computer adaptive assessment.  With Cognia, now all general assessments for ELA, math, and science will be computer adaptive.  With regards to our neighbors, Vermont joins Massachusetts and Rhode Island in their partnership with Cognia.

Some of the anticipated benefits of moving to Cognia include less time required for testing, all assessments are computer adaptive, a more intuitive platform for teachers and students, improved equity and access, and less time needed to properly prepare for the testing season.

Alongside the State summative, FWSU and its schools will continue to implement and execute our Local Comprehensive Assessment Plan designed to further student growth and achievement, and improve instruction, learning, and intervention.  

We anticipate that our preparations and habits will remain the same and training is slated for the winter session.  We look forward to sharing more about Cognia as we near the spring testing season.

Submitted by
Danielle Drogalis
Data, Assessment & Title IX Coordinator