Exams and Testing

STAAR

STAAR stands for State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, which is the state's student testing program. The assessments are based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, which are the state curriculum standards. Beginning in grade 3 through high school graduation, students are tested in the core subject areas of reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies.  For STAAR test schedules, click here. 

NWEA MAP Growth

The NWEA MAP Growth (Measures of Academic Progress) is a computer-adaptive assessment that helps measure your child's academic performance and growth in subjects such as math, reading, and language usage. Unlike traditional tests, MAP Growth adjusts to your child's learning level, providing a personalized assessment experience that accurately reflects their strengths and areas for improvement. Taking the MAP Growth test helps teachers understand your child's current academic standing and tailor instruction to meet their individual needs, ultimately supporting their learning and growth. By participating in MAP Growth assessments, your child can benefit from a more personalized and effective educational experience.  See your campus for specific testing dates.

SAISD offers College and Career Readiness School Day Testing

High Schools offer testing in the Fall and in the Spring. 

2024-2025 School Day Testing Dates

• October 16, 2024  
• March 26, 2025

The following tests are offered. 

TSIA

The Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA) is a test that determines a student's readiness for post-high school coursework in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics. By taking the TSIA, your child can identify their strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring they are well-prepared for college and post-high school success. Additionally, performing well on the TSIA can help your child avoid college remedial classes, saving time and money as they pursue their higher educational goals. This is a digital exam and only built in calculators are allowed. The exam is not timed. Click here for free practice resources.

PSAT/NMSQT

The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a standardized test that serves multiple purposes for high school students. It is a two hour and fourteen minute test with 98 questions with two math modules and two reading modules. The PSAT/NMSQT helps your child prepare for the SAT by familiarizing them with the test format and types of questions they will encounter. Additionally, high scores on the PSAT/NMSQT can qualify students for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program, which offers financial aid for college. Click here for information about the National Merit Scholarship Program. 

SAT

The SAT is a digital two hour and fourteen minute standardized test with 98 questions broken into two math modules and two reading modules. Taking the SAT will help your child demonstrate their readiness for college-level work and improve their chances of college admissions, acceptance into specific university programs, job applications, scholarship applications, and merit-based scholarships. For more information including SAT Preparation Resources and national test dates, please visit the College Board SAT website.

ACT

The ACT (American College Testing) is a digital two hour and fifty-five minute standardized test with 215 questions broken into one English, one math, one reading and one science section. There is an optional forty minute essay section that is offered on the national weekend testing dates but not offered on our school day testing. The ACT is used for college admissions, acceptance into specific university programs, job applications, scholarship applications, and merit-based scholarships.  For more information including ACT Preparation Resources and national test dates, please visit the ACT Student website. 

For more information about school day testing and which test your student is eligible to take, please contact your child’s Student Success Facilitator:

Central High School:  Jami Morrison - (325) 659-3434 x 433
Lake View High School:  Brittany Sanchez - (325) 659-3500 x 507