Maryland: Achievement Matters Most (continued)
Does my child have to pass the HSA to graduate?
Beginning with the graduating class of 2009 (ninth-graders in the 2005-2006 school year), students must pass the High School Assessments to earn a Maryland High School Diploma. The passing scores are: English (396), algebra/data analysis (412), government (394), and biology (400). If students do not pass all four tests, they may still satisfy the High School Assessments requirement by using the Combined Score Option. To use this option, the combined total of a student’s four HSA scores must be at least 1602, with no score below 386 in English, 402 in algebra, 391 in biology, and 387 in government.
Passing Scores: English 396, algebra/data analysis 412, biology 400, government 394,
Combined Score Option
If students do not pass one or more HSA, they can still fulfill the HSA graduation requirement if they earn at least the minimum scores below and the combined total of their HSA scores is at least 1602.
English 386
algebra/data analysis 402
biology 391
government 387
algebra/data analysis 402
biology 391
government 387
High School Assessments
Are substitute, modified, or comparable tests available?
Students taking challenging tests such as the Advanced Placement (AP) exams may be able to substitute a passing score on the AP exam for the HSA. Parents should talk with a guidance counselor, teacher, or the local school system Testing Director to explore this option. Maryland is developing Modified High School Assessments (Mod-HSA) in algebra/data analysis and in English for students with disabilities whose IEP Teams determine that a modified assessment is appropriate. Maryland is also exploring other ways of assessing students’ learning. A State task force has presented recommendations to the State Board of Education for an assessment that is comparable in rigor and content to the HSA. Students in the class of 2009 will be the first to be able to use the Comparable High School Assessments (Comp-HSA).
How can my child prepare for the HSA?
Keeping up with classwork and homework, participating in class, and studying hard will prepare students for the HSA. It will also improve their grades and performance on class and school system tests. Talk with your child’s teacher about how you can help support your child’s learning at home. What happens if my child doesn’t pass a test? If your child doesn’t pass an HSA, contact his/her teachers. Your child can receive extra help in the subject and may retake the test the next time it is given. The school and school system will help your child review and understand the content that he or she has not yet grasped before retaking the tests. If you have questions about the tests your child will take, talk to a teacher or guidance counselor. The Maryland State Department of Education Web site, HSAexam.org provides more information and links to sample tests.
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