FCAT Delays Q & A

Why are FCAT scores being delayed?
The state’s new test contractor, Pearson, is having difficulty matching the results files to the student identification files. 

Does the delay mean there is something wrong with the FCAT scores?
No.  The Department of Education states there are no issues with the test scores.  The issue is with linking the results files to the student data files.

Why did the State use this contractor?
Securing a vendor to provide and score the FCAT is the responsibility of the Florida Department of Education.  State laws require government agencies to award contracts to the qualified provider with the lowest bid, in order to minimize costs to taxpayers.  Pearson is one of the largest assessment companies in the world, and offered to contract with the State at a lower rate than any other qualified competitor.

When does the district expect to receive scores?
Currently, the Department of Education expects scores to be released by the end of June, although they have not yet provided specific dates for the delivery of results.

How will this impact students?
Students in grades 4 and 5 who have not already been promoted by another measure cannot have their 2010/11 school year grade placement finalized until FCAT scores are released.  These students are identified by “Pending” on their report card.

Students who are still awaiting Magnet Program placement for 2010/11 will not know if they have been accepted until after scores are released.

Some students’ scheduling is dependent on FCAT results – Level 1 readers, for example.  These students will not have their course schedules finalized until after FCAT scores are released.

How will this impact School Grades and AYP?
If FCAT scores are released by the end of June, School Grades and AYP will likely be delayed until the end of July.

Once results are available, where can I access my child’s FCAT scores?
Once the results are received, scores will be posted to the District database and will be
accessible in Virtual Counselor within 48 hours.  Parents will be notified through Parent Link once these scores have been posted.