Statewide tests for grades 3 through 8 generally cannot start before the second week of April, the testing window may last up to 6 school weeks instead of 4, and all scores are due to schools by May 26, with unofficial scores allowed to meet that deadline.
Official title: statewide assessment; testing window; revisions
- September 12, 2026
What changes
BeforeThe statewide testing window could last no more than 4 consecutive school weeks.
NowThe testing window may last up to 6 consecutive school weeks. For tests given to students in grades 3 through 8, the window may not begin before the second week of April, except for alternate tests given under a student's section 504 plan or individualized education program (IEP).
BeforeSchools had to receive third grade reading scores by May 15 and all other statewide test scores by May 25.
NowSchools must receive scores and data from the whole statewide test by May 26. The testing contractor may send unofficial scores and data to meet this deadline.
BeforeThe state board had to penalize the testing contractor for late scores. It could shift score deadlines if it changed the testing window, and the education department could adjust the testing window in years when proficiency levels were being revised or set.
NowThe state board must penalize the contractor for scores received after May 26 unless the contractor provides unofficial scores by May 26. The provisions allowing deadlines and the testing window to be adjusted are removed.
BeforeA third grader was held back if the student's score on the reading portion of the statewide test did not show sufficient reading skills. A student could not be held back if test data was not available before the end of the school year.
NowA third grader is not promoted if the student does not demonstrate sufficient reading skills as established by the state board. The text no longer refers to the statewide test score or to missing test data for this decision. A student still may not be held back more than once.
BeforeA third grader not held back because test data was unavailable had to get reading intervention if the later test data showed insufficient reading skills.
NowA third grader who is not held back and whose reading score on the statewide test does not show sufficient reading skills must receive evidence-based reading intervention and remedial help.
Who it affects
- Public school students in grades 3 through 8 who take the statewide test
- Third graders and their parents
- Teachers and school staff who give the statewide test
- School districts and charter schools
- State board of education and Arizona department of education
- The company under contract to provide the statewide test
What you need to do
Nothing.
What the law doesn't answer
- How the state board will decide whether a third grader has sufficient reading skills now that the promotion rule no longer refers to the statewide test score
- What counts as unofficial scores and when official scores must be delivered
- How large the penalties on a late testing contractor are
- The latest date a testing window may end
- When the new testing contracts required by the law must be signed
This summary describes the law as enacted. Later laws, court rulings or referendum petitions can change the picture. Check the official text for the current wording.