This year, ERBs will occur earlier than usual: on February 15-16, and on February 21-22 for students in grades 2 through 9. These tests measure aptitude and skills in many different verbal and quantitative realms. This year students will also complete the "constructed response" sections, one each in verbal and math, where students write out their answers in longhand to show their thinking process while answering math questions and reasoning through reading comprehension questions.

With results from this earlier testing period coming to school and home in the spring, we will now be in a position to run some spring information sessions for parents about the testing. We will also meet, as we have always done, with individual parents who have questions about their children's performances before we break for summer.

What is the best way to help your child prepare for the ERBs? The general rule is that children need a good night’s sleep and a solid breakfast. The skills that these tests measure are ones that your children have been working on in classes throughout their years at TPS. We look forward to discussing your child’s scores with you this spring. Of course, please do not hesitate to email Mr. Heard at mheard@tuxedoparkschool.org with any questions.