Dear Educators,
We have received many questions this week regarding assessment opt out-appropriate messaging to families, and we would like to remind you what is and is not allowed when communicating with parents surrounding opting out of testing.
Under Colorado Statute, DPS staff may not encourage parents to opt their students out of CMAS testing. As stated in C.R.S. 22-7-1012(8)(c), "A local education provider shall not encourage the student's parent to excuse the student from taking the state assessment."
Please do not use district resources (such as email or social media) or your official position to encourage families to opt out. You can provide families with resources regarding opting out and answers all questions about the process.
You may also share your opinions about CMAS in your individual capacity outside of work hours, but not speaking on behalf of DPS.
In our district communications, we have been cognizant to provide school leaders and teachers with sample language they can use to provide families opt out information without influencing a family’s decision.
Thank you for helping assure we are consistent with this state law.
Many thanks,
Tamara and Mike
