At OpenEd, in partnership with our Indiana school partner, state assessments are required. We are committed to making the testing experience as smooth and stress-free as possible for both students and families. Below you'll find answers to common questions about what to expect, when, and how to prepare.
Q: What assessments are required for Indiana students?
A: Indiana students are required to participate in state-mandated assessments as part of the Choice Scholarship Program. These include:
IREAD-3 for 2nd graders (annually)
ILEARN for students in grades 3–8 (annually)
ILEARN Checkpoints are also required 3 times annually
WIDA for English language learners (once)
For more details, visit the IDOE Assessment Page.
Q: Are there any additional assessments required by the district?
A: No. Only the state-required tests listed above.
Q: What are the performance expectations for students?
A: In 2nd grade, students take the IREAD-3 assessment to check their reading progress. If they need extra support, they’ll have the opportunity to work on their reading skills over the summer and try again in 3rd grade. If a student still needs more time to build proficiency after multiple attempts, additional support will be provided before they move on to 4th grade.
Q: When is iREAD-3 first administered?
A: All Indiana 2nd graders will take the iREAD-3 test in the spring. If your child doesn’t pass in 2nd grade, don’t worry, it won’t affect their move to 3rd grade. The test is meant to give an early look at how they're doing with reading.
Students who need extra help will be invited to a summer reading program after 2nd grade. They’ll have another chance to take the iREAD-3 test in 3rd grade.
Q: What if my child doesn’t pass iREAD-3 in 3rd grade?
A: 3rd grade students must pass the iREAD-3 test (including a summer retake if needed) to move on to 4th grade, unless they qualify for a Good Cause Exemption, which is rare and limited.
If a student doesn’t pass after being held back, they’ll get focused reading support and will keep taking the iREAD-3 each year until they pass or reach 7th grade.
Q: Can families opt out of state testing?
A: No. State testing is mandatory for students participating in the Choice Scholarship Program.
Q: Will these be virtual or on-site?
A: Both! ILEARN Checkpoints will be administered virtually. Other assessments will be on-site and OpenEd will work to ensure no family has to travel more than 45 minutes to a testing location. To complete the ILEARN Checkpoints virtually, you will need to complete this form. We made the form available during enrollment, but if you missed that, please fill it out and email it to [email protected].
Q: When will testing take place?
A: Each assessment has a specific testing window set by the state. 2025–2026 Indiana assessment windows can be found here.
Q: How will OpenEd help my child prepare for state assessments, and how will I stay informed?
A: Our team will keep you informed every step of the way, with clear details on what tests are required, when they happen, and how to prepare. We’ll provide resources, guidance, and extra support if needed to help your child feel confident and ready.