The CRCT (Criterion-Referenced Competence Tests) is a standardized test given to students in Georgia to assess individual student performance, the teaching of the Georgia Performance Standards school systems, and the general state of education in Georgia. Subjects covered are reading, English / language arts, math, social studies, and science. The tests are based on the Georgia performance standards. All questions are multiple choice.
Originally, all students in grades 1-8 took the CRCT. In the 2010-2011 school year, tests in grades 1 and 2 were eliminated due to budget concerns. All students in grades 3-8 must now take the test, including students with special needs and ESL students. However, there is the possibility of an alternate test in certain circumstances or a one-year postponement for bilingual students.
What happens when students fail the CRCT?
Students in grade 3 must pass reading to advance to fourth grade. Students in grades 5 and 8 must pass reading and math to be promoted. If students do not pass these exams, they can study or attend summer school and take a new test. A student who passes the second attempt can advance to the next grade. A second failure automatically triggers a conference with the student’s principal, teachers, and parents. If they unanimously agree that the student should be promoted, the student can be promoted without having passed the exam.
Otherwise, the student will repeat the previous grade.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “In 2009, at least 77,910 of the state’s third, fifth, and eighth grade students failed the CRCT. But that year, only 61,642 students in all 12 grades were retained for a myriad of reasons, including poor attendance, classroom grades, and CRCT scores.
Preparation and taking of the CRCT
If a child wants to prepare for the CRCT, the Georgia Department of Education has an Online Assessment System that allows students to take practice tests. They receive a username and password from their school. The actual CRCT is administered in April, usually the week after Spring Break.
Results are sent to schools and parents in May.
CRCT score
Students are not compared to each other; they are assessed on their mastery of the Georgia performance standards. Therefore, the CRCT does not include a percentage rating or score. Scores are Meets Expectations, Does Not Meet Expectations, and Exceeds Expectations.
