State Assessments
Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA)
The annual Pennsylvania System School Assessment is a standards-based assessment that provides students, parents, educators, and citizens with an understanding of student and school performance related to the attainment of academic standards' proficiency. The English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science and Technology state standards identify what a student should know and do at varying grade levels. Every student in grades 3 through 8 is assessed in English Language Arts and Math. Every 5th and 8th-grade student is assessed in science. Additional information pertaining to the PSSA may be obtained by using the following link:
https://www.education.pa.gov/K-12/Assessment%20and%20Accountability/PSSA/Pages/default.aspx
Keystone Exams
The Keystone Exams are end-of-course assessments designed to assess proficiency in the subject areas of Algebra I, Literature, and Biology. All students must participate in the exam by the end of 11th grade. Beginning with the Class of 2023, students will be required to demonstrate proficiency on the Keystone Exams or meet one of the alternative pathways as a requirement for graduation. Additional information pertaining to the Keystone Exams may be obtained by using the following link: https://www.education.pa.gov/K-12/Assessment%20and%20Accountability/Keystones/Pages/default.aspx
2025/2026 PSSA & Keystone Letter for WCSD (Grades 3 - 11) - Parent/Guardian Documents
2024/2025 PSSA & Keystone Letter for WCSD (Grades 3 - 11) - Parent/Guardian Documents - April 2025
| HS Winter Keystone Assessments | |
| Subject | Date |
| Literature | December 4, 2025 |
| Biology | December 8, 2025 |
| Algebra I | January 8, 2026 |
| PSSA Assessments (Spring 2026) | |
| Assessment | Dates |
| English Language Arts | April 21, 22, 23, 2026 |
| Math | April 27 & 28, 2026 |
| Science (Grades 5 & 8) | April 29 & 30, 2026 |
| HS Spring Keystone Assessments | |
| Subject | Date |
| Literature | May 12, 2026 |
| Algebra I | May 13, 2026 |
| Biology | May 14, 2026 |
Pennsylvania Alternate System of Assessment (PASA)
The Pennsylvania Alternate System of Assessment (PASA) is a statewide assessment designed for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities. It is intended to provide an alternate measure of student achievement in alignment with Pennsylvania's academic standards.
Eligibility
Students eligible for the PASA meet specific criteria established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. This assessment is specifically designed for students who are unable to participate in the regular PSSA assessments, even with accommodations.
Subjects Assessed
The PASA assesses the following subjects:
English Language Arts (ELA): This section focuses on essential language arts skills such as reading, writing, and listening.
Mathematics: The math section evaluates students' understanding of mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills.
Science and Technology: Administered to eligible students, this section assesses their knowledge and application of scientific concepts and technological skills.
Grade Levels
The PASA is available for eligible students aged 3 through 8, and in grade 11.
PASA Testing Window
March 9, 2026 – May 2, 2026
Purpose
The primary goals of the PASA include:
Individualized Assessment: The PASA is tailored to the unique learning needs of students with significant cognitive disabilities.
Alternative Path to Demonstrate Proficiency: It provides an alternative way for eligible students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in accordance with state standards.
Supporting Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): PASA results are used to inform and guide the development of students' IEPs.
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires Pennsylvania to ensure that the total number of students assessed in each subject using the PA Alternate System of Assessment (PASA) does not exceed one percent of the total number of all students in the state assessed on the statewide assessments. Each local educational agency (LEA) must complete and submit the PASA 1.0 Percent Participation Threshold Justification to Bureau of Special Education (BSE) if it anticipates that more than 1.0 % of its students enrolled in grades 3-8 and 11 will be assessed using the PASA. A list of LEAs who anticipate exceeding the threshold will be made publicly available on the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) website, in accordance with 34 CFR 200.6 (c)(3) regulations. LEAs must also make the document publicly available upon request, removing any personally identifiable information. The Whitehall Coplay School District anticipates exceeding the 1.0 percent threshold for PASA participation for the 2025-2026 testing cycle. The necessary justification information has been submitted to the Bureau of Special Education. Questions on the Whitehall Coplay School District participation rates should be directed to Dr. Bianca McGrath, Director of Special Education, at 610-439-1431.