Updates for 2024–25

TestNav Requirements for November 2024 Retests (6/12/2024)

For the 2024 November retests, Pearson (the current testing subcontractor) has posted the updated TestNav system requirements. These updated requirements reflect the TestNav System Requirement policy, which brings TestNav system requirements in line with manufacturer-supported operating systems (OSs) and devices.

Initial MCAS Operating System Support Plan for MCAS Administrations in 2025 (6/18/2024)

For the 2025 February Science, March retest, and spring MCAS administrations, please see the Initial MCAS Operating System Support Plan for MCAS Administrations in 2025 .

Hardware Support Plan for MCAS Administrations in 2025 (6/25/2024)

For the 2025 February Science, March retest, and spring MCAS administrations, please see the Hardware Support Plan for MCAS Administrations in 2025 .

Update to the MCAS Contract (6/18/2024)

During the May 21, 2024, Board of Elementary and Secondary Education meeting, members heard a brief update related to the MCAS contract.

The new contract, which will begin on July 1, 2024, was awarded to Cognia and includes eMetric as the subconctractor for online testing. MCAS program enhancements will include the following:

• translation of the MCAS math, science, and civics tests at grades 3–8 into Spanish
• improved turnaround times for results through the increased use of automated scoring and a new reporting portal for families and caregivers
• use of eMetric's Lighthouse platform as the MCAS test administration and student testing platform, beginning with the February 2025 high school science administration

In preparation for MCAS testing occurring in 2025, school principals should advise their technology coordinators that the system requirements for the Lighthouse platform are linked above, under Initial MCAS Operating System Support Plan for MCAS Administrations in 2025. Note that both students and staff will use the same platform; unlike current systems, under the new contract, there will be only one system, called "Lighthouse."

Schools and districts should note that there are no changes related to the current protocols for the spring 2024 reporting period nor for any activities related to the November 2024 retests, including the use of PearsonAccess Next and TestNav. Additionally, under the new contract, the MCAS Service Center will remain housed at Cognia and will continue to be available via phone, chat, and email to support schools with answers to logistical questions.

We recognize that the new contract will bring about a shift in practices and procedures for schools. Training sessions and resources—including practice tests, manuals, modules, timelines, and a crosswalk from the current system to the new one—will be made available with ample time in advance of testing to ensure a smooth transition. Please stay tuned for further information as it becomes available in the fall.

Last Updated: June 25, 2024