April 2, 2026
Dear Pinehurst Parents,
Each year, students in grades 3–8 participate in the New York State Assessments in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. In addition, students in grade 5 will take the NYS Science Assessment. All assessments will be administered on student Chromebooks, consistent with practices across New York State.
These assessments are aligned with the New York State Learning Standards and provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding and application of the skills and content they have developed over time. The results serve as one important data point that teachers and administrators use to evaluate school-wide performance by standard and skill. It is important to note that this data is considered alongside other measures to better understand each student’s strengths and areas for growth, helping us plan for appropriate instructional support. These assessments are not tied to teacher or principal evaluations and are not used to determine student placement for the following school year.
As part of New York State requirements, at least 95% of students in grades 3–8 are expected to participate in the assessments. We appreciate your support in helping us meet this expectation by ensuring your child is present and participates in testing.
The ELA and Mathematics assessments will each be administered over two consecutive days, while the Science assessment will take place in a single session. Testing will begin shortly after the start of the school day. If your child is absent for any portion of the assessment, make-up sessions will be provided.
New York State Testing Schedule
Grades 3, 4, and 5
ELA Session 1 – April 15, 2026
ELA Session 2 – April 16, 2026
Math Session 1 – April 23, 2026
Math Session 2 – April 24, 2026
Grade 5 Only
Science Assessment – April 30, 2026
It is important that students arrive at school on time, well-rested, and ready to do their best on each testing day.
If you have any questions about the testing process, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you, as always, for your continued partnership and support.
Sincerely,
Jennifer E. Makowski
Principal