Dear 3rd Grade Parents and Guardians,

The PSSAs are quickly approaching. Please be sure to read this special newsletter for all the important information you will need for these assessments. Please contact our office with questions you might have.

Attention Parents of 3rd Grade Students

The state of Pennsylvania requires all grade 3 students to take the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) test in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math. Students' test scores provide the school and parents with an overview of a students' performance. While the scores do not impact a student's academic record, it is important for all students to show what they know and do their best.

The information below is designed to help parents better understand the test and the Code of Conduct that students must adhere to during testing. If you have any questions about the tests or the information below please feel free to contact me here.

Click Here to Visit the PSSA Section of the UA Website

April 21 - April 23 English Language Arts Testing
April 21 Wear Yellow or Gold
April 22 Wear Blue
April 23 Wear Red
April 28 - April 29 Math Testing
April 28 Wear Purple
April 29 Wear Tie Dye
April 30 Wear Pajamas

Testing begins at 8:15 AM on each of the testing days. Students arriving after 8:15 AM will not be admitted into the classroom until after testing is complete for the day and will need to make-up the test on a later date.

Please ensure your students arrive on time and schedule medical appointments after 11AM on testing days.

Educational Trips will NOT be approved on testing days.

Attendance during these exams is critical.

PSSA Frequently Asked Questions

Click the link below to view the state's FAQ for PSSAs. Visit the Upper Allen website for links to the Spanish versions of these documents.

Code of Conduct

The PA Department of Education has issued guidelines regarding a student Code of Conduct for PSSA and Keystone Exam testing. Here is a brief summary of this Code of Conduct:

Students must follow strict testing rules during PSSA and Keystone Exams to ensure fairness and security. All cell phones and electronic devices are prohibited and will be collected or placed away from students during testing. Violating this rule or cheating will result in disciplinary action and may void the test.

Students are expected to follow directions, work independently, stay focused, and try their best. They should not bring notes, share answers or materials, use unapproved devices, or discuss test questions during or after the exam (including on social media).

Click here to read the full code of conduct.

Use of Electronic Devices

As test materials are secure and protected by copyright law, the use of cell phones or any electronic devices, including smart watches, during PSSA and Keystone Exams is strictly prohibited. These devices can easily capture and share test content, which can lead to serious legal and financial consequences, including fines.

If a student is found with or using an electronic device during testing:

The device will be confiscated and may be searched (with parent involvement)

The student’s test will not be scored and must be retaken

Disciplinary action will be taken

In serious cases, the PA Department of Education may become involved

The goal is to protect test security and ensure fair, valid results for all students.

To read the state's full policy on electronic devices and state assessments:

Click Here for English

Haga clic aquí para Español

Upper Allen Elementary School

Elysia Ehrich, Principal

1790 S. Market St

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

717-691-4594

upperallenoffice@mbgsd.org

upperallen.mbgsd.org