Testing and Assessment

Somerville Public Schools uses a range of assessments—classroom work, quarterly reports, common assessments, and state tests like MCAS and ACCESS—to measure student progress. This information helps tailor instruction, support student needs, and improve teaching across grades and subjects.

MCAS Statewide Standardized Testing

Students in Massachusetts public schools are required by federal and state law to participate in statewide testing. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) uses MCAS to assess student progress in English language arts, math, science/technology, and civics. These tests help schools and teachers determine whether students are mastering grade level standards. Testing schedules are available on the DESE website.

Note: There is no formal process for students to opt-out of MCAS participation. In line with guidance from DESE, districts are not required to provide supplemental lessons or educational materials for students who choose not to test.

Visit DESE

i-Ready Reading and Math

Somerville Public Schools uses i-Ready to give teachers real-time data on student progress toward grade-level standards. Students in grades 3–8 take i-Ready reading and math assessments three times a year, helping teachers adjust instruction to meet individual needs. Students can also use i-Ready personalized instruction during x-block and at home to complete lessons tailored to their needs based on the assessment results. Personalized instruction is not used during core instructional time, and is instead one of many supplementary tools to support student learning. In grades K–5, students also take the DIBELS assessment three times a year to measure early literacy skills like letter recognition, sound awareness, and reading fluency.

ACCESS for ELLs

Somerville Public Schools also tests English Language Learners (ELLs) on their written, oral, listening, and reading. English proficiency skills using the Commonwealth’s ACCESS for ELLs (ACCESS). ACCESS test results are used by the District to determine if a student continues to need Sheltered English Immersion Programming or other academic support services to help them master English.