Northwestern Elementary School

Online State Testing Policy and Procedures

Purpose
The purpose of this document is to establish secure and consistent practices for the administration of all online state-required assessments at NWES. These policies ensure compliance with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW) requirements, protect student test data, and maintain the integrity of the testing process.

1. Identification of Personnel Authorized to Access Online Tests

Only personnel who have completed state and district test security training and signed the annual Test Security Agreement are authorized to access and administer online state tests.
Authorized personnel include:
- District Test Coordinator (DTC)
- Building Test Coordinator (BTC)
- Test Administrators (assigned teachers)
- Test Proctors (if designated)
Students may only access online assessments under the supervision of trained Test Administrators/Proctors using secure testing platforms.
Unauthorized personnel (non-designated staff, volunteers, custodians, etc.) are not permitted to access or supervise online tests.

2. Procedures for Handling and Tracking Online Test Access

Before Test Sessions

The BTC ensures all devices are prepared with the secure browser and updated according to ODEW requirements.
Student test tickets/log-in credentials are generated in the Test Information Distribution Engine (TIDE) and remain secure materials.
- Test tickets must be distributed immediately before the session and collected after.
- Copies, photos, or screenshots of tickets are strictly prohibited.

During Test Sessions

Test Administrators launch test sessions in the Ohio Secure Browser and provide students with session codes.
Students may only use approved devices configured for secure testing; personal devices are not permitted.
Test Administrators and Proctors must actively monitor screens and student activity at all times.
Unauthorized electronic devices (cell phones, smartwatches, etc.) must be powered off and collected or stored away from students during testing.
Any technical issues (frozen screen, log-out, connectivity problem) must be reported immediately to the BTC/DTC and documented.

After Test Sessions

Test Administrators end the session in the testing platform and ensure all students have submitted responses or paused appropriately.-
Student test tickets are collected and returned to the BTC for secure disposal or storage until the next session.
The BTC verifies participation records in TIDE and reports any absences or incomplete sessions.
Secure browsers are closed before devices are released for other use.

3. Procedures for Investigating Alleged Test Security Violations

Any suspected violation (e.g., unauthorized device use, sharing test content, accessing websites outside the secure browser) must be reported immediately to the BTC or DTC.
The BTC/DTC will:
1. Document the allegation, including date, time, test session, individuals involved, and description.
2. Secure relevant evidence (system logs, staff/student statements, screenshots if applicable).
3. Notify the building principal and district administration.
4. Conduct a preliminary investigation to determine if a violation occurred.
Confirmed violations will be reported to ODEW in accordance with state policy.
Consequences may include disciplinary action for staff, invalidation of student test results, and/or further district-level interventions.

4. Annual Communication of Online Test Security Provisions

Each school year, all district staff involved in testing will:
- Receive written copies of ODEW’s Test Security Provisions, including the Electronic Device Policy and Social Media Policy.
- Participate in required online testing and test security training.
- Sign a Test Security Agreement confirming compliance.
Families and students will be informed annually of the test security requirements through:
- Parent communications (letters, website updates, newsletters).
- Student information sessions or classroom meetings explaining:
  - The secure browser
  - Device restrictions
  - Prohibited behaviors (using phones, sharing test content online, etc.)
Students will acknowledge test security reminders on test day before beginning the assessment.

Approval and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the District Test Coordinator and Building Administration to ensure alignment with ODEW online testing policies and updates.

Effective Date: August 26, 2025
Approved By: Kelly Rebernak (Assistant Principal; Building Test Coordinator)