New York State requires 3rd through 8th graders to take state standardized tests in math and English language arts (ELA). The 3rd, 5th, 7th and 8th grade tests are of particular importance because students in those grades who score at the lowest ranking on the test—Level 1—are at risk for being held back.

Students in the youngest grades take standardized tests, called the "ECLAS" and "E-PAL", to monitor how well they are learning their basic skills. These tests are intended to help the teacher tailor instruction to the needs of the child. They are not to be used in promotion decisions.

Until recently, it was possible to get a high school diploma in NYC by passing the "RCT" or Regents Competency Tests. No more. Now, most students in New York State must pass the more difficult Regents exams. (For a breakdown of who has to take the Regents and who can still take the RCT's to graduate, look at our page on Graduation requirements.)

The Department of Education has a number of useful web pages on their standards for student learning. For the most straight-forward information on standardized tests for K-8th graders, as well as tests given to English language learners, go to the Office of Assessment and Accountability webpage.

On the DOE website, you can also find information on performance standards in range of subjects for New York City school students.

You can also visit the state's page on standards, but be prepare to be mystified.

On this page: Students with disabilities | Alternate assessments

Students with disabilities

Most students who receive special education services are supposed to take the same state and citywide tests as general education students. There is, however, a wrinkle in this policy. Under New York City regulations, K-8th graders who receive special education services may have their yearly promotion standards "modified" depending on their needs. A 5th grade student with a severe reading disability, for example, might have to meet the reading standards of a 3rd grader to be promoted. See our page on what your child needs to be promoted for more information. It is not clear, however, that this practice comports with federal law.

High school students who either receive special education services or have been "decertified," which means that they used to reveive special education services, do not necessarily have to pass the Regents exam. If they are unable to pass the Regents in a certain subject, they may take the RCT in that area instead and still graduate.

Alternate assessments for students with disabilities

If an IEP team determines that it is not appropriate for a student with a disability to participate in regular state or local exams, students with disabilities should be provided "alternate assessments." These assessments should be aligned with the regular curriculum and should be used only for students with severe cognitive delays. Only a small percentage of all students with disabilities should be allowed to take alternate assessments. While state policy says that students who take alternate assessments will not be able to earn a high school diploma, it is not clear that this policy complies with federal law.

For more information on alternate assessments, you can visit the New York State Education Department website or learn about the federal rules at the US Department of Education's website.

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