State education testing

[tingngabe]

My son is will have to take the PA pssa test in April. Last year we wiggled our way out of it, but we were with a cyber school and they weren't upfront with the testing procedure. This year we are at a brick and mortar school. He has an IEP for autism, speech and language delay/disorder. He received reading assistance, speech, OT, and math pull out. He is in 4th grade, but significantly delayed in reading and writing. Test taking is a very stressful this for him. What can I ask for in the way of assistance and help with the test? Or can we wiggle out of taking it again? I really don't like these state assessment tests.

Thanks

[healthy11]

I'm not from PA; is the pssa test related to common core? If so, and it's like testing in my state, then I believe your son should be entitled to use whatever accommodations he is ordinarily entitled to use. In fact, I did a quick search, and it looks like some kids can get accommodations, even without IEP's or 504 plans: static.pdesas.org/Content/Documents/Accommodations%20for%20Students%20without%20IEPs%20or%20504%20Plans%2001.20.11.pdf
Hopefully, someone from PA will respond and confirm the details.

[empeg1]

Do inquire whether or not you can opt out for your son.

[bros]

Here's the Education Law Center's fact sheet on PA:
www.elc-pa.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/ELC_FactSheet_TestingOptOut_March2014.pdf

Basically, the test has to disagree with your religion - but they cannot request proof or deny your objection.

[tingngabe]

Thank you. We are supposed to have an IEP meeting next Thursday to discuss ESY. The school has been dragging their feet on this issue, but my son has has ESY since he was in Kindy. I finally got a response to set up the meeting. I will bring up opting out and assistance with the exam at that meeting. Keep searching info so I have question to ask.