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Cary School District 26

Engage, Empower, Excel

Assessments

Benchmark & Achievement Testing Dates

Cary 26 administers a combination of assessments as a tool to help our teachers gain insight into our students areas of strength and continued growth. Assessments help our teachers set goals with our students, progress monitor and target instruction to best meet the needs of all our students.

  • Cary District 26 uses the i-Ready platform to monitor progress in Reading and Mathematics. This adaptive tool helps teachers understand each child’s unique needs, allowing us to personalize instruction and track growth in real-time.

    The Two Components

    • Diagnostic Assessment: An adaptive test taken three times a year to identify specific strengths and areas for growth.

    • Personalized Instruction: Tailored, self-paced online lessons designed to meet your child exactly where they are.

    2026-2027 Testing Windows

    • Fall: September 8 – September 18

    • Winter: January 19 – January 29

    • Spring: April 26 – May 7

    • LasLinks Spanish Proficiency- May 11-may18th

    Family Resources

  • Kindergarten Benchmark Observations 

    Dates:

    October 9- October 23

    Learn More About KIDS

  • Grades K- 8, English Language Learners only

    January 13 - March 2

    Learn More About ACCESS

     

  • Grades 2 only

    February 1 - February 19

  • Grades 3-8 only

    March 1 - April 16

    Learn More About IAR

  • Grades 3-8 only, select students 

    March 10- May 5

    Learn More About DLM

  • Grades 5 and 8 only 

    March 1- April 30 

    Learn More About ISA

  •  

    DESSA (Grades K–8):

    • Fall: September 28 – October 2
    • Winter: January 19 – January 22
    • Spring: April 26 – April 30

    SECA (Grades 5-8 only):

    • Fall: September 28 – October 2