Understanding the PASA 1% Cap for Participation

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires Pennsylvania to ensure that the total number of
students assessed in each subject using the PASA does not exceed one percent of the total number of all
students in the state assessed on the statewide assessments. Each local educational agency (LEA) must
complete and submit the PASA 1.0 Percent Participation Threshold Justification to BSE if it anticipates
that more than 1.0 % of its students enrolled in grades 3-8 and 11 will be assessed using the PASA. A list
of LEAs who anticipate exceeding the threshold will be made publicly available on the PDE website, in
accordance with 34 CFR 200.6 (c)(3) regulations. LEAs must also make the document publicly available
upon request, removing any personally identifiable information. The Rockwood Area School District
anticipates exceeding the 1.0 percent threshold for PASA participation for the 2019-20 testing cycle.
The necessary justification information has been submitted to the Bureau of Special Education.
Questions on the District’s participation rates should be directed to Megan Hetrick, Supervisor of Special
Education, (814) 926-4688 extension 1116.