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UzbekDear Families,
From October 4 to November 12, 2021, all B.C. students in Grades 4 and 7 will participate in the Ministry of Education’s Foundation Skills Assessment (FSA). Based on the BC Curriculum, the FSA assesses students on three key areas of learning: reading, writing and numeracy. The assessment is designed by teachers, experts and the Ministry of Education.
Each assessment is made up of four parts: 1) Collaborative activity, 2) student booklet, 3) interactive online questions and 4) a student self-reflection.
Students do not need to prepare for the FSA in advance.
What is the FSA?
The FSA is simply a “snapshot” of how students are doing so far in their school career. It does not count towards your child’s marks/grades, nor does it provide a complete picture of your child’s ability or the type of learner they are. The information collected through the FSA is used by the school district and the province to align resources to improve student learning.
Some parents may receive materials from the British Columbia Teachers’ Federation. Please keep in mind that administration of the FSA is directed by the Ministry of Education, via a Ministerial Order. It is the School District’s legislated responsibility to ensure that this Ministry assessment is administered, students are supervised, and the data from the assessments is collected and transmitted to the Minister.
While the Ministry of Education expects all children in Grades 4 and 7 to write the FSA, it approves the following exceptions:
- Students who learn in a manner significantly different from provincial curricular standards and, that is documented in their Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
- English Language Learners who are not yet proficient in reading, writing or numeracy in the English language.
- Students experiencing extenuating circumstances, for example a family emergency or lengthy illness.
School principals will determine which students, if any, may be excused from participating in the FSA.
Your support as a parent is highly valued. Here are some links that you may find helpful:
If you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s school principal for more information.
Sincerely,
Scott Stinson
Superintendent of Schools/CEO
Sooke School District