Assessment Spotlight: 2026–27 Interim Assessments and Upcoming Training
New CAASPP and ELPAC interim assessments are now available, with free coordinator convenings, webinars, and reporting-system training scheduled throughout August and September 2026.
At a glance
- The 2026–27 CAASPP and ELPAC interim assessments are available.
- New-coordinator convenings begin August 31.
- The fall interim and formative assessment webinar series begins September 15.
- CERS Essentials training begins August 19.
- High school equivalency and proficiency convenings begin August 10.
2026–27 interim assessments are now available
The 2026–27 CAASPP and ELPAC interim assessments are now available for administration in the Test Delivery System and for review in the Interim Assessment Viewing System . An account login is required.
Available assessments include Smarter Balanced English language arts/literacy and mathematics, California Science Test interim assessments, and ELPAC interim assessments.
Find available assessments
Use the lookup tool to review the full list, identify newly added 2026–27 forms, and filter assessments by subject, grade level, and hand-scoring requirement.
Maintain test security
Although a test security agreement is not required for interim assessments, local educational agencies are encouraged to have staff read and sign one. The optional sample agreement may be adapted for local use.
Secure materials and answer keys
Updated secure materials—including scoring training guides, exemplars, test content and answer keys, and Directions for Administration—are available in the Test Operations Management System (TOMS) under the Resources tab.
For English language arts/literacy and mathematics, answer keys are available through the Interim Assessment Item Portal .
Additional interim assessment resources
In-person New Coordinator Convenings
LEA CAASPP and ELPAC coordinators with fewer than three years in the role are invited to an in-person convening designed to build knowledge, strengthen professional networks, and support preparation for the year ahead.
Participants will connect with coordinators from across California, explore TOMS and the California Educator Reporting System (CERS), and hear practical guidance from experienced peers and ETS Success Agents.
| Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sacramento | Monday, August 31 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Contra Costa | Tuesday, September 1 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Los Angeles | Thursday, September 3 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| San Diego | Friday, September 4 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Fresno | Friday, September 11 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
Registration is free.
Fall 2026 Interim and Formative Assessment Webinar Series
This free CDE-sponsored online series focuses on using the interim and formative components of the CAASPP and ELPAC comprehensive assessment system to inform teaching and learning.
Formative Assessment and Tools for Teachers
CAASPP and ELPAC Interim Assessments
Educator Panel and Shared Practices
California Educator Reporting System Training Series
The eight-part CERS Essentials Training Series provides guidance throughout the 2026–27 school year for educators learning the system and administrators responsible for student groups and staff access.
Getting to Know the System
Designed for all CERS users, this session covers system fundamentals, navigation, and assessment results. It can serve as an introduction or a refresher.
Managing Student Groups as an Administrator
Designed for CERS administrators, this session covers loading, uploading, and managing student groups and staff access.
High School Equivalency and Proficiency Convenings
Chief examiners, test site administrators, school counselors, and others supporting high school equivalency and proficiency programs are invited to attend the in-person 2026 convenings.
The sessions will provide timely updates and collect feedback regarding the GED® and HiSET® exams. Participants may earn 0.5 professional development units, equivalent to 7.5 hours, by attending a convening.
| Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sacramento | Monday, August 10 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Contra Costa | Tuesday, August 11 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Monterey | Wednesday, August 12 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Bakersfield | Thursday, August 13 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Fresno | Friday, August 14 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Orange | Tuesday, August 18 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| Los Angeles | Wednesday, August 19 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
| San Diego | Thursday, August 20 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. |
Stay connected
For questions about test administration, coordination, and training, visit the CAASPP and ELPAC website .
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