What is CMA?

California Modified Assessment (CMA)

The California Modified Assessment (CMA) is a new grade-level assessment for students who have an individualized education program (IEP) plan, are receiving grade-level instruction and, even with interventions, will not achieve grade-level proficiency within the year covered by the student's IEP plan. The purpose of these tests is to allow students to demonstrate achievement of the content standards in English–language arts, mathematics, and science. The CMA test format is designed to provide students with disabilities greater access to an assessment of the California content standards.

 IEP plans must be revised annually to include CMA participation beginning in 2008.                                      The decision to use the CMA is an IEP team decision based on student needs.

Who Takes the CMA?
Students in grades 3, 4, and 5 may take one or more of the CMA tests if they:

  • Have an IEP plan; and
  • Scored Below Basic or Far Below Basic in any subject in the spring 2007 CSTs. These students can take one or all of the grade-level CMA tests; and
  • Are not eligible to take the California Alternate Performance Assessment (CAPA).

Students shall not take the CMA if they:

  • Do not have an IEP plan; or
  • Are eligible to take the CAPA.