Testing in Kindergarten

Kindergarten student tests

In Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), kindergarten tests focus on basic literacy and numeracy development. Required tests for kindergarteners are listed in the table below, organized alphabetically by test name. 

Kindergarten Required Tests
Test NameRequirement SourceContent TestedPurpose of TestTime Needed*Schedule**Results Distribution
Child Behavior Rating Scale (CBRS)StateSocial Emotional SkillsTo measure self-control and the ability to successfully interact with peers and adultsApprox. 20 minutes

Sept. 18 to Oct. 13

April 8 to May 17

Mailed or published in the Student Information System (SIS) ParentVUE Documents tab within approx. 2 months of the close of the assessment window
Early Mathematics Assessment System (EMAS)StateMathematicsTo measure early mathematics abilities and growthApprox. 20 minutes

Sept. 18 to Oct. 13

April 8 to May 17

Mailed or published in the SIS ParentVUE Documents tab within approx. 2 months of the close of the assessment window
Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening (PALS)

State

Winter ONLY for students below fall benchmark

ReadingTo identify gaps in foundational literacy skills and measure progressApprox. 30 minutes

Oct. 2 to Oct. 27

Jan. 3 to Feb. 2

April 22 to May 17

Fall results mailed within approx. 2 months of the close of the assessment window

Winter results incorporated in ongoing performance communication to parents/guardians 

Spring results mailed or published in the SIS ParentVUE Documents tab within approx. 2 months of the close of the assessment window

WIDA ACCESS for ELLS

State

ONLY for English learners

Reading, Writing, Speaking, ListeningTo measure annual English language proficiency and progress in compliance with federal lawApprox. 5 hours totalJan. 16 to Mar. 15Distributed to parents/ guardians by the start of the next school year
WIDA Screener

State

ONLY for potential English learners

Speaking, Listening

Beginning Jan. 29: Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening

To determine eligibility for English learner services, in compliance with federal lawApprox. 15 to 30 minutes

Aug. 22 to Sept. 18

OR within 14 days of enrollment

Distributed to parents/guardians within 1 month

* The amount of time needed for testing varies by student. All times are estimates. 

** Schedule dates represent the window of time during which tests may be given. Each school sets and communicates the specific date for each test.

See other grade level tests

Link to grade level tests.

Find out more about student assessments

Link to student assessment.