Field Trip:

Colorado Teachers Lead the Way in State Assessment

Colorado’s statewide assessments are more than tests—they’re tools shaped by the educators who know the state’s students best. Teachers across the state are directly involved in creating the CMAS assessments, from developing questions that align to the Colorado Academic Standards to reviewing passages, ensuring the tests reflect what students are actually learning in classrooms.

“Teachers are involved the whole time,” said Eric Gaulden, a Cherry Creek Academy writing teacher. “We are there at passage review, actually writing the questions and aligning them to the standards. CDE really listens to teachers when we have questions or suggestions.”

This hands-on approach gives teachers influence over the process and ensures assessments are fair and aligned to state standards.

“Our voices are heard in the CMAS development process,” said Lindsay Bohlinger, a content specialist at Weld Re 4 School District. “They want input that’s authentic to what’s happening in the classroom.”

Teachers take pride in the process, knowing it benefits both students and educators.

“Teachers should feel proud of CMAS because it’s made by teachers, for teachers, to assess our students and see where we can improve and celebrate our teaching practices,” said Briana Whitehead, a biology teacher at Legacy High School in Adams 12 School District.

For Rebecca Recabarron, a fourth-grade teacher in the Widefield School District, the collaboration was eye-opening. “There’s power in having someone who’s really in the weeds understand how the students think.”

By keeping Colorado teachers at the center, the state strengthens the connection between instruction and assessment. Students receive tests aligned to what they’re learning, educators gain meaningful insights into classroom performance, and families understand how their children are progressing.

Having Colorado teachers write Colorado tests ensures assessments are not just a requirement—they’re a purposeful tool for improving learning statewide.