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CDE Assessment Spotlight · Issue 380 · September 18, 2026

Assessment Spotlight: K–2 Resources, Coordinator Training, and CAA for Science

New early-learning resources are available in Tools for Teachers, registration is open for an October webinar for newer assessment coordinators, and the California Alternate Assessment for Science testing window is underway.

At a glance

  • New kindergarten through grade two literacy and mathematics resources are available in Tools for Teachers.
  • California local educational agency staff need a free Tools for Teachers account for full access.
  • A new coordinator webinar on practice tests, training tests, and interim assessments is scheduled for October 15.
  • The CAA for Science window opened September 15; its three embedded performance tasks may be scheduled throughout the instructional year.

New K–2 Resources in Tools for Teachers

Educators looking for fresh ways to support early literacy and mathematics can now find new kindergarten, grade one, and grade two resources in Tools for Teachers. These standards-aligned supplemental resources include:

Ready to support instruction

  • Ready-to-use, engaging lesson plans
  • Professional learning resources designed with young learners in mind
  • Connections Playlists with practical ideas for identifying meaningful next steps for student learning

The collection can help educators support a challenging skill, gather evidence of what students know and can do, and plan appropriate next steps.

Explore the K–2 resources

Tools for Teachers account required

For full access, California local educational agency staff need a Tools for Teachers account. Staff may follow the How to Self-Register for Tools for Teachers guide (PDF) or contact their LEA testing coordinator.

New Coordinator Training: Practice Tests, Training Tests, and Interim Assessments

October 15, 2026 · 3–4 p.m.

What the webinar will cover

  • The purpose of using training and practice tests
  • The difference between practice tests and training tests
  • The purpose of interim assessments
  • Available key resources

This webinar is part of a yearlong series that provides just-in-time information and opportunities to ask questions of experienced coordinators.

Audience: LEA CAASPP and ELPAC coordinators who have served in the role for less than 12 months, along with coordinators who would like a refresher on their responsibilities.

Register for the webinar

CAA for Science Testing Window Now Open

The California Alternate Assessment (CAA) for Science testing window opened September 15, 2026. Test examiners may begin administering the three embedded performance tasks now.

The three performance tasks should be scheduled throughout the school year. Each task should be administered shortly after the student receives instruction on the related science content.

Administration reminders

  • Use the script in the secure Directions for Administration available through the Test Operations and Management System (TOMS).
  • Administer each performance task one-on-one with a trained test examiner who is familiar with the student and the student’s needs.
  • Some questions include Part A and Part B and may require scrolling.

Review the Organization of the CAA for Science flyer (PDF)

Stay connected

For questions about test administration, coordination, and training, visit the CAASPP and ELPAC website .

Please share this update with educators in your LEA who would benefit from these resources. To join the statewide assessment email list, send a blank message to .

Questions may also be directed to the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress Office at or 916-445-8765.

View Assessment Spotlight issues on the CDE website

Source: California Department of Education Assessment Spotlight, Issue 380. Event availability, schedules, and registration details may change; confirm current information with the linked provider.