TNDOE Announces Changes to TCAP

Published July 14, 2016

The Tennessee Department of Education is making significant changes to the 2016-17 TCAP Assessment.

On July 14, the department announced it is reducing the amount of testing by 30 percent overall. In grades 3-8, TCAP has been shortened by 200-210 minutes, depending on the grade. Most End of Course assessments have been reduced by 40-120 minutes.

In addition, the department is eliminating Part I of the TCAP Assessment. The test will now be given in a single administration window at the end of the school year. To minimize the impact on the overall school environment, the window will be one week shorter than last year.

Lastly, the department is breaking the test into shorter subparts in an effort to minimize disruption to the normal school schedule.

“We are pleased to see that the Department of Education listened to school districts across the state and is taking measures to reduce the amount of and time for testing in our schools, and we look forward to receiving additional guidance,” said Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney.

The changes come as the department finalizes its contract with Questar, the primary vendor for the 2016-17 TCAP. Additional information can be found on the Tennessee Department of Education’s website.