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Student Assessment
As part of the MA DESE's commitment to providing resources to support Educator Preparation programs as they implement the newly revised Candidate Assessment of Performance (CAP) and Performance Standards for Teachers (PST), this list of resources has been compiled by The Reading Circuit and EdLighten Solutions.
This evolving library, reflects contributions from sponsoring organizations, DESE, and Communities of Practice, and is designed to support continuous improvement and consistent, equitable implementation of the CAP process statewide.
Ensuring that all teacher candidates are well-prepared to teach the rich and diverse range of students in Massachusetts classrooms is a challenging, but not solo, task! We know that the Educator Preparation Programs and the talented faculty who instruct teacher candidates across the Commonwealth have a wealth of knowledge and expertise.
Please share some of the resources that have been helpful in your program by reaching out to educatorpreparation@mass.gov .
For other resources and support around PST and CAP, here are a few pages from DESE:
These resources can be used at any point in the Teacher Preparation Program, and are particularly helpful to support a Teacher Candidate before they enter a classroom, either for their pre-practicum or practicum experience. These resources support the implementation of the CAP Five-Stage process.
These resources are organized according to the Essential Elements of the CAP. They also represent an array of sources of evidence. Please see each resource's cover page for information on when, by whom and how the resource could be used.
Adjustments to Practice
Collaboration on Student Learning and Well-Being
High Expectations and Support
Inclusive Instruction
Safe Learning Environment
Subject Matter Knowledge
Reflective Practice
These resources support the use of the Early Literacy Observation Form as part of the CAP process for candidates in Early Childhood, Elementary 1–6, Moderate Disabilities PK–2, and Moderate Disabilities PK–8 programs.
Last Updated: June 16, 2025