April State Testing for 3rd - 8th Grade

Upcoming State Testing in April
Upon returning from Spring Break, students in 3rd through 8th grade will take the state-mandated assessments used for accountability in all public school districts in Illinois. The District asks for your partnership and support as we approach these important testing dates for our students.

Students in 3rd through 8th grade will take the Illinois Assessment for Readiness (IAR).

• Winkelman testing dates: April 6 - April 9, 2026
• Field testing dates: April 6 - April 9, 2026

In addition, students in 5th and 8th grade will take the Illinois Science Assessment (ISA). 

• Winkelman testing dates: Week of April 13
• Field testing dates: Week of April 13 

The IAR is a computer-based assessment designed to measure mastery of the Illinois Learning Standards incorporating the Common Core in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics for all 3rd through 8th grade students. The ISA aligns with the Illinois Learning Standards for Science, incorporates the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and is only given to 5th- and 8th-grade students. Our District 31 ELA, math, and science curricula are also aligned to the Illinois Learning Standards. 

Some students in grades 3 through 8 with the most significant learning needs participate in the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) assessment instead of the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR). The DLM is designed for students whose disabilities make it difficult to show what they know on a traditional assessment, even with supports and accommodations. It measures progress in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math in a way that is personalized to each student. It also measures progress in science in grades 5 and 8.

A student’s participation in the DLM is determined by the IEP team. This decision is carefully made and based on whether a student requires significant, individualized support for learning and is working toward alternate academic standards. The team also considers whether the general state assessment would not accurately reflect the student’s abilities, even with accommodations.

Results from state testing are typically sent to schools in the Fall of the subsequent school year, which means you can expect the results for your child in Fall 2026. The data from these assessments allow District 31 administrators, curriculum coordinators, and teachers to analyze trends over time in order to evaluate overall programming and facilitate continuous improvement of educational programs in District 31.

To ensure District 31 students are able to truly “show what they know”, please make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep, eats breakfast the week(s) of testing, and arrives at school on time with a charged Chromebook. This will help them put forth their best efforts on these state-mandated assessments.