New York schools face slowdowns in computer-based testing

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) has reported a second day of slowdowns in the Grades 3-8 Computer-Based Testing System. Spokesperson JP O’Hare conveyed the department's apologies to schools, students, and families affected by the disruptions. O'Hare emphasized, "Make no mistake: the state’s testing vendor, NWEA, is solely responsible for the issues that have affected testing this year."

The slowdowns have been attributed to failures on the part of NWEA, the state testing vendor. NYSED has been in contact with NWEA leadership, demanding answers and solutions to prevent further disruptions during the spring 2025 testing period. "This situation is unacceptable, and NYSED will be holding NWEA responsible for not meeting expectations and contractual obligations," O’Hare stated.

NWEA has assured that a permanent solution is now in place to prevent future issues. However, some schools may choose to wait before resuming testing to ensure stability. For schools where students successfully logged in and completed their tests, their responses are recorded and submitted without issue. Schools facing login problems can either pause or continue testing today as stability returns.

Acknowledging the impact of losing two testing days, NYSED has decided to extend the testing window by one week, now concluding on May 23. The computer-based format will persist, with additional support available from NWEA for schools in need.

The department remains focused on resolving the situation and appreciates the patience of the school communities during this period. "We continue to monitor the situation and thank our school communities for their patience," O’Hare concluded.