3-8 Exam News and Updates

Current Nextera Status

Current Nextera/Questar Status: No issues


Troubleshooting and Support
If issues continue after clearing cache, checking bandwidth, and trying a different device, pause the student’s test. Gather device details, including operating system version, and contact:
NWEA Customer Service
1-866-997-0695


Past Reported Issues:
  • [NYSED/NWEA Investigating] April 29:  Reported issues of slow loading on Questar.  Students also being kicked out of sessions.

News and Updates for 3-8

ELA, Math, and Science FAQs
Check our updated FAQs for CBT.pptx

What Schools Should Be Doing Now

1. Generate Comprehensive Report and Sort by Non-completers
  • All students have the right to complete a test by May 15
2. Gather any PBT test materials to be scored by Premier
3. Set Not Tested Codes by Friday, May 22

Training/Security Overview

Here is an easier-to-navigate overview of key SAM information for 3–8 CBT:
2026: 3-8 Security and Integrity 

NWEA opened Students and Classes tabs on Monday, March 9, 2026.
School users had four weeks to organize and prepare for the 2026 operational testing in Nextera Admin.

Paper Answer Sheets (IEP/504/ELL Only)

Use only for students with an IEP or 504 plan requiring paper testing.  Also acceptable for ELLs testing on paper.
Request through MAARS in the NYS Testing section under IEP/504 Answer Sheet Request Form or this link.
Please try and have requests in by March 13th.

Key Dates (2026)

• March 9: Students and Classes tabs open in Nextera
• March 23: Tests tab opens
• April 6 to May 15: Operational Testing Window
• April 7 to May 22: Scoring Window
• March 23 to May 22: Not Tested Code Window



Science Scoring

Science Grades 5 and 8 are scored statewide by NWEA and HMH.
Vendor scoring orders are not required for Science CBT but will be available for Science PBT.

Nextera and Technology Readiness

• Continue using last year’s Secure Browser
• The Technology Readiness Checklist is open and early completion is recommended

Technology Considerations

Whitelist Required Domains

These domains must be allowed for CBT, TTS, STT, and authentication:

Device Prep

• Close unnecessary apps
• Disable screen savers, notifications, and automatic updates
• Confirm devices are on the correct wireless network

During Testing

• Stagger classroom start times to reduce network load
• Chromebook keyboard fix: press Ctrl and Spacebar
• Remind students to submit tests fully before exiting

Lessons Learned from the 2026 Simulation

• Practice the Submit and Confirm process with students
• Conduct at least one workflow-only practice session
• Double-check accommodations in Nextera before testing
• Test headphones and audio ahead of time
• Stagger start times and monitor network load
• Re-add any practice students removed during the Partial Admin Flip
• Provide room-level quick-reference sheets for proctors

Helpful Links

Contact Info

Start Here:
Ian Buchanan, MAARS
Phone: 585-349-9069
Direct Email: [email protected]
Shared email: [email protected]

We may advise you to directly contact:
[email protected] for policy decisions
NYTesting@nwea.org for Nextera Operations/Support

Need Materials?

Blanks
Reach out to Ian Buchanan to get blanks sent right to your email!  

Testing Booklets:
Need an alternate language? Large Type? Or just an extra copy of a student packet?  Reach out to these contacts.

Please contact by phone first, if possible:
BOCES 2 Component Districts
Lucy Fagan
(585) 349-9060
[email protected]

Monroe One Component Districts
Wanda Briggs
(585) 383-6423
[email protected]

Charter Schools
Nancy Eichner
(585) 262-8328
[email protected]