FCAT Assessment Prep

A Principal’s Guide toPreparing for the FCAT

2

Principal Responsibilities

The principal sets the tone for FCAT success.

3

TEST ADMINISTRATION

In order to ensure a successful test administration, the principal:

Meets regularly and plans with the test chairperson and leadership team.

Develops a thorough test administration plan.

Careful selection of proctors Alternate daily schedules SPED and ESOL accommodations Snacks for students and staff Organization of test materials and procedures

4

TEST ADMINISTRATION

Refer to the Region I website for additional resources related to test administration procedures.

www.region1.dadeschools.net

5

Test Day CHECKLIST

The principal will ensure the following:

PA system is operational. Construction is halted. Additional substitutes are available. Bell schedule is adjusted. Movement throughout the building is limited. All proctors and support personnel are in place. A two-way radio operational plan is in effect.

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Test Day CHECKLIST

Be ready for Murphy. (He may show up.)

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STUDENTS

It is imperative for the principal to visit every classroom prior to testing in order to:

Ensure students take the test seriously. Motivate students to do their best. Explain the impact the test will have on them

personally. Help students understand how well they scored

on the FCAT and what their score means to them and their school.

Stress the importance of attendance.

8

STUDENTS

Refer to the Region I website for additional school-wide student test prep strategies for principals.

www.region1.dadeschools.net

9

PARENTS

Principals need to ensure that parents are involved and well informed regarding FCAT preparations:

Use Connect ED. Disseminate information through EESAC, PTSA,

Booster Clubs and the Parent Resource Center. Provide FCAT Parent Orientation Workshops. Include FCAT information in newsletters and

other correspondence. Stress the importance of attendance.

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PARENTS

Refer to the Region I website for additional resources related to parent test prep information.

www.region1.dadeschools.net

11

TEACHERS

Principals need to ensure that teachers:

Utilize data to drive instruction. Follow the scope and sequence. Emphasize benchmarks and Item

Specifications. Implement “best practices.” Stress the importance of student

and staff attendance.

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TEACHERS

Refer to the Region I website for additional resources related to teacher test prep information.

www.region1.dadeschools.net