FCAT Writes Testing Begins Tomorrow

Young authors will be put to the test at schools throughout the Land O’ Lakes area starting tomorrow, March 1, as FCAT Writes gets under way.

The statewide standardized test for writing abilities is meant to measure the skills of students in the fourth, eighth and 10th grades. The assessment has been part of Florida’s standard testing procedures since the legislature passed it into law in 1990, according to the Florida Department of Education’s website.

During the test, students will be asked to write responses to assigned topics. Later in the year, parents can expect to receive individualized reports on their children’s performance on the test.

While student angst prior to big tests isn’t uncommon, Pasco County school district officials say area youngsters should be well prepared.

Charles S. Rushe Middle School’s new principal David Salerno said teachers have been working hard all year to make sure students know what they need to for the test.

With that in mind, he said, the best things parents can do to prepare their children is to provide them a good start to the day.

“Make sure the students are here and prepared,” he said. “Get a good night’s rest (on Feb. 28) and on March 1 get a good breakfast.”

For more information about FCAT testing, visit the department of education’s website at fldoe.org.

Testing continues through March 3.