Test security exists to ensure resulting assessment data is valid and useful. District staff are trained on test security procedures and students acknowledge the importance of test security prior to starting a statewide assessment.

Important examples of protecting test security includes making sure that:

• Test questions and answers aren’t shared.
• Test takers are free from outside influence.
• Test takers are not discouraged from participation.
• The testing environment is secure and standardized at all times.

Test security matters because cheating, external help, discouraging participation, or the sharing of test content results in inaccurate testing data. Because testing data is used to make educational decisions at the district and state level, having reliable and accurate data is crucial. Without test data that is meaningful and accurate, reaching the goal of educational equity becomes much more difficult.