Assessments

The Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) are the state's mandatory annual summative assessments for public school students in grades 3-8, evaluating proficiency in English language arts (ELA), math, science, and social studies. These tests measure mastery of the Colorado Academic Standards, with spring testing focused on ensuring students are meeting grade-level expectations.

CMAS Testing Schedule

CMAS testing is only for students in Grades 3-5. Testing will take place from April 7 through April 23, 2026. This includes makeup test days.

View the Semper CMAS Testing Schedule

Key Details About CMAS:

• Subjects & Grades: English Language Arts and Math (grades 3-5), Social Studies (grade 4), and Science (grade 5)
• Purpose: The tests are designed to measure student mastery of the Colorado Academic Standards, monitor educational program effectiveness, and guide instruction.
• Format: The assessments are mostly online and include interactive, scenario-based questions.
• Results: Results are used to help educators and parents understand student progress and for school accountability.

CMAS Test Structure

Each content area test has three different parts, taken on three different days in sequential order.

• Language Arts: 90 minutes
• Math: 65 minutes
• Social Studies (4th grade only): 65 minutes
• Science (5th grade only): 65 minutes

Setting Your Student Up for Success

To help students in grades 3-5 perform their best on the Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS), families should consider the following:

Sleep and Rest

• Prioritize 10 hours of sleep: The CDC recommends elementary-aged children get at least 10 hours of sleep per night to support memory consolidation and concentration.
• Maintain a consistent routine: Keep the same bedtime every night leading up to and during the testing window.
• Limit electronics before bed: Turn off screens at least one hour before bedtime to ensure a higher quality of restful sleep.

Nutrition and Eating

• Eat a nutritious breakfast: Fuel the brain with proteins and complex carbohydrates (e.g., eggs, oatmeal, or Greek yogurt).
• Avoid high-sugar foods: Sugary cereals or drinks can lead to energy crashes and lack of focus during long testing sessions.

Attendance and Punctuality

• Arrive early: Aim to be at school early to allow your child to settle in without rushing.
• Avoid absences: Research indicates that students who take make-up tests alone often do not perform as well as they do when testing with their peers.
• Minimize appointments: Do not schedule doctor or dentist visits during the testing windows.

Logistics and Environment

• Charge devices: Ensure school-issued Chromebooks or tablets are fully charged the night before.
• Prohibit personal electronics: Students are generally not allowed to have phones, smartwatches, or fitness trackers in the testing room.
• Promote a calm morning: Create a "no-rush" atmosphere with positive affirmations to reduce test anxiety

Assessments inform instruction and monitor student progress. Assessments should:

• Add value to the student learning experience.
• Engage families in supporting their students.
• Help identify strengths, interests and opportunities for growth for all students.

A collection of assessment results can be used to help set goals, identify priorities and inform equity of access to grade-level learning.

Individual schools determine which additional assessments will support their specific student population’s learning. Each school will select specific dates within the district-provided assessment windows.

Some assessments are required by federal or state law; see information regarding state assessment participation. Families can refuse participation in state assessments for their students. Contact your student's school if you have questions about test refusals.

How to View Assessment Data on Student Insights Jeffco Elementary Assessments & Schedule Jeffco Secondary Assessments & Schedule