Tests

Adoption List of State-Approved "Formative" (Interim) Assessments: South Carolina Code Ann. 59-18-310 (Supp. 2007) provided for the creation of a statewide adoption list of formative assessments in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics. This section was amended in June 2017 to include grades kindergarten through nine. The legislation requires that each formative assessment satisfy professional measurement standards and align with the South Carolina College- and Career- Ready Standards. Subject to appropriations by the General Assembly for the assessments, districts will be allocated funds to select and administer formative (interim) assessments from the adoption list for use in improving student performance in accordance with district improvement plans.

Test Security: Test security is essential to obtain reliable and valid scores for accountability purposes. Accordingly, the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) must take every step to assure the security and confidentiality of the state test materials. District Test Coordinators (DTCs) and School Test Coordinators (STCs) must provide appropriate training for all personnel involved in testing so that they have a common understanding of test security and appropriate testing practices.