what are pssa scores used for
Frequently asked questions about standardized testing Students' TerraNova results are also used in determining admission to special admission high schools and middle schools. At the school level, principals and teachers may use TerraNova or PSSA scores to identify students in need of extra help in reading or in math. Frequently asked questions about standardized testing The PSSA is used by the state to identify low-performing schools, such as the schools involved in the recent school reform efforts in Philadelphia. Schools' results on the PSSA and the TerraNova may also be used by the School District to determine whether a school requires special help, additional resources, or other support. The School District is in the process of developing a school performance index that will likely incorporate scores on both the TerraNova and the PSSA, combined with other indicators such as student and teacher attendance. - PSSA test items are linked to the standards and PSSA scores are used to stratify student performance within the standards. Students receive designations of Below Basic,