In this edition of A View of the Summit, we're spotlighting key updates around state testing, the future of school funding in Colorado, and how our district continues to advocate for excellence, equity, and innovation in education. In this edition, we’ve intentionally built in space for reflection—a chance for you to consider how this situation, and others like it, may be impacting your students’ learning. Please take a moment to check in with yourself and your students. Our collective awareness and care help shape the supportive environment all learners need. Thank you for being part of our community!

Supporting Students During State Testing Season

Students are in the midst of the Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) testing—and we want to take a moment to share why these assessments matter and how you can help your child be prepared and confident.

What Are These Assessments?

CMAS – Colorado’s statewide assessment program for:

• Grades 3–8: English Language Arts and Math
• Grades 5, 8, 11: Science
• Grades 4, 7, 11: Social Studies (sampled)

PSAT – For grades 9 & 10

• Measures core academic skills
• Connects students to scholarship opportunities
• Indicates AP course readiness

SAT – For all 11th graders in Colorado

• Accepted by most colleges

• A key graduation requirement

• Provides access to scholarships

Why We Participate in State Testing

We recognize standardized tests are just one part of the big picture. Still, they offer valuable insights:

• Identify strengths and gaps in our curriculum
• Support personalized student needs
  Shape teacher professional development
• Fulfill accountability tied to district funding

Reflection: “These tests help ensure our students are progressing toward their goals—and let us know how we can better support them. How can you best support students with their education?”

Testing Calendar & What to Expect

Each school follows a specific testing schedule—check our Assessment Calendar on the website for dates.

After Testing:

Families will receive individual student reports (usually in August), including:

• Achievement levels by subject
• Comparisons to district and state averages
• Growth over time

Reminder: Test results are important—but they do not define a student’s intelligence or worth.

School Funding & Colorado's Adequacy Studies: What It Means for Summit

The Colorado Department of Education recently released two studies asking a crucial question:
“How much does it truly cost to fund an excellent education?”

Spoiler alert—it’s more than schools currently receive.

What Are Adequacy Studies?

Commissioned by SB23-287, these studies measured:

• Outcome-Based Costs (AIR): What it takes to reach student performance goals
• Input-Based Costs (APA): What resources schools need—like teachers, materials, and student supports

Both concluded: Colorado schools, especially those in rural or high-cost areas, are underfunded.

What This Means for SSD
As a school district, we continue to be tasked with doing more - often with fewer resources and increasing demands. We feel this funding gap deeply in Summit as we continue to:

• Recruit and retain great educators
• Provide competitive salaries
• Maintain safe, secure learning environments
• Ensure services for all learners

*Graph taken from page 3 of the Equity and Adequacy of Colorado School Funding: A Cost-Modeling Approach Executive Summary
 

We’ll continue advocating at the state level for funding that reflects our needs—and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
 

Reflection:

What educational priorities do you want lawmakers to understand about Summit?

Looking Ahead:

From assessments to school finance, one idea runs through it all:
 

We are committed to supporting every student, every step of the way.
 

We are proud to be part of a district that values:

• Excellence through community collaboration
• A future-ready mindset
• Opportunity for every learner

 Got feedback or questions? Let us know at communications@summitk12.org

Tony Byrd, EdD
Superintendent
Summit School District

Laura Cotsapas
Chief Transformation & Academic Officer
 

Kara Drake

Chief Financial Officer