Skip To Main Content

Questions?

For help, contact assessment@wcasd.net.

Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA)

The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) is a standardized assessment used to measure student performance in Pennsylvania's public schools. It is administered annually to students in specific grade levels to evaluate their proficiency in core subjects.

Subjects Assessed

The PSSA assesses the following subjects:

  • English Language Arts (ELA): This section evaluates students' reading, writing, and language skills. It includes reading comprehension, writing skills, and language conventions. (Grades 3 through 8)
  • Mathematics: The math section measures students' understanding of mathematical concepts, problem-solving skills, and mathematical reasoning. (Grades 3 through 8)
  • Science: Administered to students in certain grade levels, the science assessment evaluates knowledge and application of scientific concepts. (Grades 5 and 8)


Purpose

The primary goals of the PSSA include:

  • Assessing Student Proficiency: The PSSA provides valuable data on students' understanding of academic content in the assessed subjects.
  • Informing Instruction: Results from the PSSA help educators identify areas of strength and weakness in their curriculum and teaching methods.
  • School Accountability: The PSSA is a crucial component in evaluating school performance and ensuring accountability in the education system.


Understanding Your Student's PSSA Score in the LinkIt! Portal

Each student receives a performance level based on their test results:

  • Advanced: The student's work goes beyond what is expected for the grade level.
  • Proficient: The student is meeting the expected standard for the grade level.
  • Basic: The student shows partial understanding of the expected standard.
  • Below Basic: The student shows little understanding of the expected standard.

Proficient and Advanced are considered on grade level.

What Else You Will See in the Portal

  • Scaled score: A number that allows scores to be compared across students and years within the same subject.
  • Subject breakdown: A closer look at how your student performed in specific skill areas within the subject, such as reading informational text or algebraic concepts.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

  • One test is one point of information. Teachers use classroom work, report cards, and other assessments throughout the year to build a full picture of your student's progress.
  • Scores from this test reflect a single day and may not capture everything your student knows.
     

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions in this PSSA FAQ. (FAQ en espanol)