MASSACHUSETTS VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL TEACHER TESTING PROGRAM

 

 

 

 

CANDIDATE HANDBOOK

2009-2010

 

 

 

 

This Handbook contains detailed information on the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program.  Candidates are strongly urged to keep it on hand as a reference to be used to answer any questions that they may have regarding the testing process for Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program Written and Performance Exams.

 

 

 

 

The Testing Program’s hours of operation are weekdays

from 8:15 a.m. through 3:15 p.m.

 

Greater Lowell Technical High School

250 Pawtucket Boulevard

Tyngsboro, MA  01879-2199

Telephone: (978) 441-4946

Fax: (978) 441-5344

Email:  techteachtest@gltech.org

 

 

 

 

Updated: 7-2009       


All of the information contained in the Candidate Handbook may also be found on our website as well as additional information regarding vocational TECHNICAL TEACHER licensure including Written and Performance Examination Outlines which identify percentages of subtest areas and list recommended reference materials.  The Outlines are revised periodically with changes in technology and are being aligned with the massachusetts VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION FRAMEWORKS (VTEF).

 

Greater Lowell technical high school website

 

www.gltech.org/TeacherTesting.htm

 

MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF ELEMENTRY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION WEBSITE

 

http://www.doe.mass.edu/

 

MASSACHUSETTS TESTS FOR EDUCATOR LICENSURE WEBSITE

 

http://www.mtel.nesinc.com/

 

MASSACHUSETTS CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Vocational Technical Education Frameworks

 

www.doe.mass.edu/cte/frameworks

 

Testing Program The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program includes a Written Exam of vocational technical subject matter knowledge and technical literacy and a Performance Exam in Vocational Technical Skills and related knowledge.  The performance exams require candidates to demonstrate their manipulative (hands-on) skills as well as how to apply their technical knowledge in the planning and preparation of a specific product or diagnose and repair a technical problem characterized in the given licensure area.  In most cases, Candidates will demonstrate their vocational technical skills by completing a work sample using tools, machines, materials and equipment normally used in the area of licensure.  These skills will be measured by predetermined criteria and aligned with the Massachusetts Vocational Technical Educator Frameworks.  The performance exams are administered by professionally licensed vocational technical instructors in the designated licensure area.  The scope of the performance exams are described in the performance exam outlines which are mailed to candidates upon registration and may also be obtained through our website www.gltech.org/TeacherTesting.htm.  The tests are also designed to ensure that Massachusetts vocational technical teachers are knowledgeable in the subject matter of the license so that they can help their students meet the content standards set forth in the Massachusetts Vocational Technical Education Frameworks.


 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

PAGE

The Massachusetts Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program

2 – 3

A.  Program Personnel

B.  Directions To Greater Lowell Technical High School and Map

 

 

 

The Massachusetts Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program’s Role in Technical Teacher Licensure

4

 

 

I. Testing Registration/Examination Fee

5 – 6

A.   Exam Fee Schedule

B.   Exam Areas

 

 

 

II. Signature

7

 

 

III. Registration for Alternative Testing Arrangements Due to a Disability

7 – 10

 

 

IV. The Written Examination Process

11 – 14

A.  Scheduling the Written Examination

B.  Before the Examination

C.  What to Bring to the Examination

D.  Arrival at the Examination Site

E.  Parking at Greater Lowell Technical High School

F.  At the Examination Site

G.  Leaving the Examination

 

 

 

V. Testing Regulations

14 – 16

 

 

VI. Testing

16 – 17

 

 

VII. The Performance Examination Process

18 – 19

A.  Scheduling the Performance Examination

B.  Before the Examination

C.  What to Bring to the Examination

D.  Arrival at the Examination Site

E.  At the Examination Site

F.  During the Examination

G.  Leaving the Examination

 

 

 

VIII. Notification of Performance Examination Results

19

 

 

IX. The Performance Exam Appeal

19 – 20

A.  Performance Examination Review Process

 

 

 

X. Title IX and Chapter 622 and E.E.O. Compliance

20

 

 

SAMPLE 1:  Written Exam Candidate Score Report

21

SAMPLE 2:  Performance Exam Candidate Score Report

22

 

 

APPENDIX A:  Score Verification Request Form

 

APPENDIX B:  Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form

 

APPENDIX C:  2009-2010 Registration Form

 

APPENDIX D:  2009-2010 Testing Program Calendar

 

 

 

 


 

VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL TEACHER TESTING

PROGRAM PERSONNEL

 

 

 

 

 

Testing Program Director:                       Richard Marchand

 

Assistant Testing Program Director      Robert Lussier

 

Test Development Coordinator               Kathryn LoVetere

                                                                       (978) 441-4946

 

Administrative Assistant:                         Lisa Boyd

                                                                      (978) 441-4946

                                                                      lboyd@gltech.org

 

Clerical Assistant                                      Cathleen Sousa

 

Please Mail All Correspondence To:     Greater Lowell Technical High School

                                                                      250 Pawtucket Blvd.

                                                                      Tyngsboro, MA  01879

                                                                      ATT: TEACHER TESTING PROGRAM

 

 

Program E-Mail Address:                         techteachtest@gltech.org

 

 

Program Website:                                      www.gltech.org/TeacherTesting.htm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STEVENS AMENDMENT COMPLIANCE

The Massachusetts Vocational Technical Teacher Testing

Program is partially supported by a $125,000.00 grant from

the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

 


 THE MASSACHUSETTS VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL TEACHER TESTING PROGRAM, LOCATED AT GREATER LOWELL TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL IN

TYNGSBORO, MASSACHUSETTS.

DIRECTIONS TO GREATER LOWELL TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL

 

 

RECOMMENDED DIRECTIONS

From the West:

Take I-495 North, toward Lowell/Lawrence. Take Rte 3 North exit toward New Hampshire. Take Rte 113 exit (exit number 35). Take a left at the end of ramp onto Kendall Rd. (Rt-113E) and cross the Tyngsboro Bridge. Take your first right after the bridge onto Pawtucket Boulevard (Rt-113E). G .L. T .H.S. is approximately 1.9 miles on your left.

From the South:

Take I-93 North to 495 South to Rt.3 North. Take Rt-113 exit (exit number 35). Take a left at the end of ramp onto Kendall Rd (Rt-113E) and cross the Tyngsboro Bridge. Take your first right after the bridge onto Pawtucket Boulevard (Rt-113E). G.L.T.H.S. is approximately 1.9 miles on your left.

From the North:

Take Route 3 South to exit number 35 (RT-113), toward Tyngsboro/Dunstable. Bear right at the end of the ramp onto Kendall Rd (113E) and cross the Tyngsboro Bridge. Take your first right onto Pawtucket Boulevard (Rt-113E) G.L.T.H.S. is approximately 1.9 miles on your left.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


License Test Requirements Candidates seeking a Preliminary Vocational Technical Education license must achieve a passing score on both the Communication and Literacy Skills test and the Written and Performance subject matter skills tests.

 

The Massachusetts Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program (hereinafter referred to as the Technical Teacher Testing Program) will send a Candidate Handbook of detailed information regarding the Technical Teacher Testing Program to candidates for Vocational Technical Teacher Licensure upon request.  Additional materials sent:

 

Massachusetts Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program

Greater Lowell Technical High School

250 Pawtucket Blvd.

Tyngsboro, MA  01879

Telephone: (978) 441-4946

www.gltech.org/TeacherTesting.htm

 

§   Written and Performance Exam Outlines

§   Candidate Handbook (which contains Test Registration Form and Calendar)

 

 

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Office of Educator Licensure

75 Pleasant St.

Malden, MA  02148

Telephone: (781) 338-6634

http://www.doe.mass.edu/

 

§   Office of Educator Licensure Application Package for Vocational

       Technical Educator Licensure

 

Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure

National Evaluation Systems

P.O. Box 660

Amherst, MA  01004-9013

Telephone: (413) 256-2892

http://www.mtel.nesinc.com/

 

§   MTEL 2009-2010 Registration Bulletin

§   MTEL Test Information Booklet

 

 

All educator licensure requirements may be completed in any order, but must be fulfilled prior to issuance of a preliminary educator license.

 

Candidates must pass the Written Subject Area Skills Examination prior to scheduling a Performance Examination.  Examination scores are reported simultaneously to the candidate and to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (D.O.E.)

 

The role of Technical Teacher Testing program is limited to administration of Vocational Technical subject area written and performance examinations.  All questions regarding licensure and Communication and Literacy tests should be directed to the above listed references.


 

The Technical Teacher Testing Program will mail the candidate upon request a Candidate Handbook, which contains a Vocational Technical Test Registration Form and a Testing Program Calendar for the upcoming school year.  This calendar includes all examination dates, deadlines for registration, as well as other dates of importance regarding the Technical Teacher Testing Program.

 

§  Candidates should immediately return the Registration Form with their examination fee.

 

§  Test registration fees are due on the Published Registration Deadline for both Written and Performance Exams.

 

§  If you withdraw from a test after you register, you may be eligible for a partial refund.

 

§  To withdraw from a test or to withdraw your registration entirely, you must notify the Technical Teacher Testing Program in writing.

 

You may withdraw from a test administration and receive a partial refund if your request is received by the registration deadline for the test which you have registered.  If your request is received after the deadline or if you are absent from the test administration, you will receive no refund or credit of any kind.

 

ALL FEES MUST BE PAID BY CERTIFIED/BANK CHECK, MONEY ORDER OR CASH.

NO PERSONAL CHECKS WILL BE ACCEPTED

 

A. THE EXAMINATION FEE SCHEDULE IS AS FOLLOWS:

 

Exams Administered 9/1/09 through 12/30/09

Written Exam and Re-Test Fee

$100.00

Performance Exam and Re-Test Fee

$200.00

 

**Exams administered after 1/1/10**

Written Exam and Re-Test Fee

$150.00

Performance Exam and Re-Test Fee

$250.00

 

 

**Since participation in the performance exam is based upon passing the written exam it is necessary to

register for a performance exam AFTER passing the written exam.  A registration form for the performance exam will be enclosed in your written test results notification.

 

 

THE FOLLOWING FEES MAY BE ASSESSED

 

Late Registration (Mail), three weeks prior to Performance Exam

$25.00

Emergency Registration (telephone) four business days prior to Written Exam

$25.00

Reschedule of Written Exam Registration prior to four business days to Written Exam

$25.00

**Reschedule of Performance Exam Registration

$25.00

Payment Default

$25.00

Score Verification

$35.00

Refund of Test Fee (Processing Fee) prior to Deadlines for Rescheduling Dates

$25.00

 

 

** Rescheduling of a Performance Examination more than two weeks prior to scheduled exam.  Rescheduling of a Performance Exam less than 2 weeks prior to the exam will result in canceling your exam and forfeit of your exam fee.


B. EXAM AREAS

 

Please indicate your vocational technical area on all correspondence with the Technical Teacher Testing Program.

 

1 Agricultural Mechanics

2 Automotive Collision Repair & Refinishing

3 Automotive Technology

4 Baking

5 Facilities Management

6 Cabinetmaking

7 Carpentry

8 Design & Visual Communications

9 Programming & Web Development

10 Cosmetology

11 Culinary Arts

12 Diesel Technology

13 Drafting

14 Electricity

15 Electronics

16 Fashion Technology

17 Graphic Communications

18 Heating-Ventilation-Air Conditioning-Refrigeration

19 Hospitality Management

20 Machine Tool Technology

21 Major Appliance Installation/Repairing

22 Marine Service Technology

23 Mason and Tile Setting

24 Metal Fabrication & Joining Technologies

25 Information Support Services & Networking

26 Office Technology

27 Painting & Design Technologies

28 Plumbing

29 Radio & Television Broadcasting

30 Sheet Metal Working

31 Power Equipment Technology

32 Welding

33 Medical Assisting

34 Health Assisting

35 Dental Assisting

37 Horticulture

38 Environmental & Science Technology

39 Biotechnology

40 Marketing

41 Engineering Technology

 


I. VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL TESTING REGISTRATION/EXAMINATION FEE

 

Complete the Registration Form carefully, and return it with a certified check or money order for $100.00 payable to: GLTHS Teacher Testing.  You will receive a Written Examination Admission Letter scheduling you for the next available Written Examination.  This letter will serve your admission ticket to the exam as well as a receipt for your examination fee.  If you do not receive correspondence from the Technical Teacher Testing Program within ten (10) working days of mailing your Registration Form, please call the number on the front of this Handbook. 

 

II. SIGNATURE

 

After you have completed your registration form and checked it for accuracy and after you have carefully read this Candidate Handbook and the Testing Regulations (refer to section VI), sign your name and write the date on the line provided on the registration form.  Your signature on this form indicates that you attest to the accuracy of the information on the registration form and that you understand this information and the rules outlined listed for participation in the written and performance examinations and agree to the follow these rules.  Your signature also indicates that you are taking the Massachusetts Vocational Technical written and performance skills exams because you are seeking licensure as a vocational technical educator in the state of Massachusetts and for no other purpose.  Please be aware that your registration form will be returned unprocessed if it is not signed.

 

III. REGISTRATION FOR VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL COMPETENCY ALTERNATIVE TESTING ARRANGEMENTS DUE TO A DISABILITY

 

A.  Requesting Accommodations

Alternative testing arrangements that are reasonable in the context of this licensure exam and supported by documentation may be provided, upon request, to Candidates that would not be able to take the test under standard conditions.  Candidates who may be eligible for alternative testing arrangements are:

 

·         Candidates whose religious practices do not allow them to take tests on Saturdays; or

·         Candidates with physical disabilities (e.g., visual impairments, motor disabilities, illness, or injury) or cognitive or emotional disabilities (e.g., learning disabilities)

 

You may make a request for alternative testing arrangements when you register for the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program only during the regular registration period.  To ensure that there is adequate time to process your request, you are required to register and submit all required information no later than 30 calendar days prior to the scheduled examination.

 

The Technical Teacher Testing Program will review each request as it is received and determines on a case-by-case basis whether to grant requested alternative testing arrangements.

 

In some cases, the supporting documentation submitted with a request for alternative testing arrangements may not be sufficient to make a determination or may not support the requested accommodation.  In such cases, you will need to submit additional documentation.  The Technical Teacher Testing Program may contact you directly to discuss suitable testing arrangements.

 

B.  How to Register

If you require special accommodations in order to take the Vocational Technical Written or Performance Examination due to a disability, you must notify the Technical Teacher Testing Program in writing at least thirty (30) days prior to your requested examination.

 

If you require only minor adjustments to the testing environment, such as wheelchair accommodations, you may be able to test under standard conditions, but you will be required to complete the Alternative Testing Arrangements Registration Form.


C.  Initial Requests for Alternative Testing Arrangements

The first time you request alternative testing arrangements for a Technical Teacher Test, you must submit the following:

 

                 1.    a completed registration form, Appendix C, with correct payment, .

                 2.    the alternative testing arrangements request form, Appendix B, and

                 3.    supporting documentation, if required. (refer to section IV. Section j)

 

The documentation is kept confidential to the extent of the required law.

 

D.  Subsequent Requests for Alternative Testing Arrangements

If you register for a subsequent test date(s), and your condition, disability, or religious conviction and the recommended accommodation(s) for it have not changed, you must submit:

 

                 1.    a completed registration form with correct payment, Appendix C, and

                 2.    the alternative testing arrangements request form, Appendix B.

 

If your condition or disability and/or the recommended test accommodations have changed, you must submit additional documentation to support your request.

 

E.  Making Determinations

The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program reviews requests for alternative testing arrangements individually upon receipt to determine if the request and supporting documentation are complete and that any required tests and diagnostic documentation are current (conducted within the past five years).  The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program also reviews documentation to determine that it supports the requested accommodation(s) and that the requested alternative testing arrangement(s) is reasonable in the context of the selected Vocational Technical Teacher Test.  The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program may grant or deny all or some of the requested accommodations.  The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program will notify you in writing whether your requested accommodation(s) can be provided for the requested test administration date.  If you do not receive a written notice from the Technical Teacher Testing Program by the Monday before the test administration date, please contact the Technical Teacher Testing Program at

(978) 441-4946 about your request for alternative testing arrangements.

 

In certain cases, your requested alternative testing arrangements may be granted, but they may not be able to accommodate the testing administration date you requested.  In such a case, the Technical Teacher Testing Program will contact you to discuss a suitable testing arrangement.  You will be given the choice of taking the test with accommodation(s) at an alternative testing date.  If you have any questions or wish to check on the status of your request, you may contact the Technical Teacher Testing Program Office.

 

F.  Unprocessed Requests

The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program may return your request to you unprocessed if the required information is reviewed and determined to be incomplete.  This will cause delays in the review process.

 

G.  Denied Requests

The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program may deny your request for alternative testing arrangements if:

                 1.    the documentation does not support the request for alternative testing arrangements or

                 2.    the requested accommodation(s) is not reasonable.

 

If your request is denied, you will be notified in writing and provided with the reason for the denial.

 

If your request is returned to you unprocessed or denied, the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program will contact you and will offer you the opportunity to take the test on the date requested without all or some of the requested alternative testing arrangements.  Or, you may provide additional supporting documentation and/or information to the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program in support of your request, and you may request that your registration and test fees be applied to a future test date.


H.  Unable to Accommodate Request

Because of the amount of time required to adequately review requests for alternative testing arrangements there can be no assurance that requests for alternative testing arrangements received after the regular registration deadline can be accommodated for the chosen test date.  If your request cannot be accommodated, the Technical Teacher Testing Program will contact you and offer you the opportunity to take the test on a date requested without all or some of the requested alternative testing arrangements or you may request that your registration and test fees be applied to the next available test date.

 

If your request for alternative testing arrangements was denied and you wish to have the decision reviewed, you may submit a written request for a review to the Commissioner of Education at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  Requests for a review should be received no later than 30 days after denial of the request for alternative testing arrangements.  To facilitate the Commissioner’s review, requests must include all supporting documentation submitted to the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program as part of your original request for accommodation(s).  Any new, updated, or additional information should first be submitted to the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program for consideration and decision, prior to submitting a request for a Department review.

 

The request should include a cover letter that contains the following information:

·         your name,

·         home address,

·         date of birth,

·         date on which you are making the request for review,

·         date of the test administration for which you are requesting a review,

·         the reason you believe that the requested accommodation(s) should be granted,

·         any supporting documentation and

·         your signature.

 

Send your request for a review to the Commissioner of Education, c/o State Director of Career/Vocational Technical Education, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, 350 Main St., Malden, MA  02148-5023.  You may also fax your request for review to the State Director at (781) 338-3950.  Requests for a review received by the State Director less than 30 days prior to the test administration date for which you seek the alternative testing arrangements may not be processed by the test administration date.  The decision of the Commissioner or the Commissioner’s designee shall be final.

 

I.  Registering for an Alternative Test Date for Religious or Military  Reasons

An alternative test date may be arranged for candidates whose religious practices do not allow them to take tests on Saturdays.  An alternative test date may be arranged only for religious reasons or if you are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces and your duties preclude you from taking a Saturday test.

 

·         To register for a Monday test for religious reasons, submit with your registration form a letter of explanation on your cleric’s letterhead.  Also include the name of the agency requiring you to take the test.

·         To register for a Monday test because of military duties, submit with your registration, a copy of your orders.

 

The alternative test date for written exams will be the Monday following the regular Saturday test date.  The alternative test date for a performance exam will be on a weekday following the scheduled exam.  To request an alternative test date, you must submit both of the following:

 

                 1.    a completed registration form, Appendix C, with correct payment, and

                 2.    a completed alternative testing arrangements request form, Appendix B


J.  Registering for Alternative Testing Arrangements Because of a Disability

To request alternative testing arrangement, you must submit all of the following:

 

          1.     a completed registration form, Appendix C, with correct payment;

          2.     a completed alternative testing arrangements request form, Appendix B, identifying the disability and the specific arrangements request; and

    3.     recent documentation, within the past five (5) years listing your disability by a licensed professional, on that person’s professional letterhead, whose license or credentials are appropriate to diagnose the disability (e.g., ophthalmologist for visual impairment or physical therapist for mobility impairment).  This information is important to ensure that the appropriate accommodations are made for you.  The statement must indicate the following:

 

·             the disability for which alternative testing arrangements are being requested

and

·             recommended test administration modifications that are specifically related to the disability and are reasonable in the context of this licensing test.

 

If you are requesting alternative testing arrangements due to a cognitive or emotional disability (e.g., learning disability), you must submit all of the following:

 

          1.     a completed registration form with correct payment;

 

    2.     a completed alternative testing arrangements request form, Appendix B, identifying the disability and the specific arrangements request; and

 

          3.     a statement by a licensed professional, on that person’s professional letterhead, whose license or credentials are appropriate to diagnose the disability (e.g., ophthalmologist for visual impairment or physical therapist for mobility impairment).  This information is important to ensure that the appropriate accommodations are made for you.  The statement must indicate the following:

 

                  a.   the disability for which alternative testing arrangements are being requested, with supporting documentation in the form of one of the following, which must be included as part of the statement or as separate documentation:

 

·         a full educational history with complete documentation of special education services, including other disability-related testing modifications received within the past five years, along with the name, date, and results of the test(s) or evaluations(s). administered within the past five years, used to document the disability;

 

or

 

·         results of a psychological, neuropsychological, or psychoeducational test battery administered within the past five years, interpreted by a qualified professional whose license or credentials are appropriate to diagnose the condition:

 

or

 

·         results of an evaluation interpreted by a licensed professional verifying physical abnormalities as evidenced by a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroencephalogram (EEG), or brain topography mapping test administered within the past five years;

 

and

 

·         recommended test administration modifications that are specifically related to the disability and are reasonable in the context of this licensing test.


IV. THE WRITTEN EXAMINATION

 

A.  Scheduling the Written Examination

Written Examinations are held on scheduled Saturdays throughout the school year at Greater Lowell Technical High School.  Registrations received later than one week prior to a Written Examination may not be scheduled until the next available Written Examination date and you will be so notified in your admission letter.  Your prompt registration is necessary to guarantee the earliest Written Examination date.  It is your responsibility to take the examination on the date you are scheduled.  If you CANNOT POSSIBLY take the examination on the date you are scheduled, please call the number on the front of this Handbook as soon as possible, to be scheduled for the next available examination. 

 

B.  The Written Examination Description

The Massachusetts Vocational Technical Skills Written Exams are designed to measure Candidate knowledge of the specific technical subject matter in relationship to the established content standard.  As such, it is a criterion-referenced exam.  These exams are currently being revised to align with the appropriate Massachusetts Vocational Technical Education Frameworks (VTEF).

 

Each content exam is designed to measure areas of knowledge in sub areas and are written and/or developed by fully licensed Massachusetts Vocational Technical Educators.  A Candidate’s performance on the exam is evaluated against an established standard.  The passing score of 70% is approved by the Commissioner of Education and is partially based on the professional judgments and recommendations of the Massachusetts Vocational Technical Educators.  Candidates who do not achieve the 70% passing score may retest at any subsequent scheduled test administration.

 

The Vocational Technical skills written exam is designed to measure the candidate’s knowledge of the specific vocational technical skills, related mathematics and science as well as any technical regulatory guidelines (i.e., OSHA, electrical code, etc.).  Outlines of skill exams are provided to Candidates when they register for an exam and may be obtained through the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program website.

 

The written exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions.  Each question consists of one incomplete sentence or a questions followed by four choices.  Listed below are several sample items:

 

              1.         On steep roofs when roof brackets are being used:

 

                          a.       no guardrails are needed.

                          b.       pump jacks should be in place.

              *           c.       personal fall protection equipment must be worn.

                          d.       wall brackets must be in place.

 

              2.         Determine the area of one side of a conventional hip roof 44 ft. in length, with a 16 ft. ridge

                          and a common rafter of 18 ft. in length.

 

                          a.       622 sq. ft.

                          b.       1116 sq. ft.

              *           c.       558 sq. ft.

                          d.       792 sq. ft.

 

              3.         Hydrogen peroxide is an example of a(n):

 

                          a.       salt

                          b.       acid

                          c.       alkali

              *           d.       oxidizer

 

Correct answers are indicated by an *


C.  Before the Examination

You will be notified of the receipt of your Registration Form and fee with your Admission Letter regarding your test registration.  Also included with this Admission Letter will be a map to the examination site, an exam outline with percentages of topics covered and any special instructions regarding your specific Written Examination.

 

D.  What to Bring to the Examination

You must bring your Admission Letter, which is your admission ticket to the exam, and current government issued picture ID, which has a photograph, signature and name which you registered for the test.  Only calculators provided by the Technical Teacher Testing Program are allowed to be used for Written Examinations.  Personal calculators must not be brought to the test site.  Please do not bring any materials other than those noted specifically on the Examination Outline Sheet sent to you.  Reference material, cell phones and other electronic devices, notebooks, or briefcases will not be allowed into the Testing Center and our staff is not responsible for looking after your property while you are taking the examination.

 

E.  Arrival at the Examination Site

Allow plenty of time for the trip to the examination site.  You are expected to arrive on time.  Not being able to find the school or excessive traffic is not an excuse.  If you are unsure of the location of the school, please call our office.  A detailed map with directions is included with all admission letters.

 

If you wish to stay overnight in the Greater Lowell area during the testing period, there are several motels which have reasonable rates and are within a twenty minute drive from the school.

 

In the event of severe weather conditions, call (978) 441-4946 to receive information regarding exam cancellation.  The Technical Teacher Testing Program will also announce cancellations on TV Channel 7 and WRKO AM/680 radio Storm Force.  If, in your judgment, the conditions are too extreme for you to travel, write or e-mail us within three days of the missed examination and you will be scheduled for the next written examination without penalty.

 

F.  Parking at Greater Lowell Technical High School (GLTHS)

When parking at GLTHS for the Written Examination, park in the large parking lot designated for staff

and proceed to the entrance of the school.

 

G.  At the Examination Site

When you enter GLTHS, you will register at the registration desk.  Be sure to have your Examination Admission Letter and present a current valid form of a government issued picture identification (i.e.: Driver’s License or Passport) to the Testing Program personnel.  Upon receipt of this letter, you will be checked in.  Examination "check in" is from 8:00 A.M. - 8:30 A.M. in the school lobby.

 

1.  LOOK      for the examination check-in desk in the lobby of the school.

 

2.  SHOW     your government issued picture identification and hand in your Written Examination Admission Letter.

 

3.  GO TO     the School Mall Area to wait to be escorted to the Testing Center, room 3260, by the Testing Program Director.  If you need to use the restroom, do so before entering the Testing Center.

 

4.  SIGN        the Examination Sign-In Sheet.  Once you have received your materials, YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE TESTING CENTER.

 

5.  DO NOT  open your examination envelope until instructed to do so.

 

6.  LISTEN    when the Examination Proctors and the Program Director give directions.  You will be given directions on how to fill out the identifying information on the answer sheet.  Follow these instructions carefully.  If you have a question, raise your hand and the Proctor will assist you.

 

After a brief orientation, the exam is expected to begin no later than 9:20 a.m. and will last three (3) hours.


During the test session, you will be permitted to work at your own pace.  The test schedule has been developed to allow sufficient time for candidates to complete the test, and some candidates may finish their test well before the scheduled completion time.

 

i.  Late Arrivals It is essential that you report promptly to the test site when it opens for admission.  Only in rare cases, candidates who arrive up to 30 minutes after testing has begun may be admitted.  However, admittance of each late arrival will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Test Administrator.

 

If you are admitted late to a test session, you will not be given additional time beyond that already allotted to the other candidates for the session, and you will be required to sign a statement acknowledging your understanding of this fact.

 

ii.  Prohibited Materials You may not bring with you or use during the test administration any unauthorized aids or materials, including, but not limited to the following:

 

·                  cellular phones

·                  personal digital assistance or any other  types of electronic information or communication devices

·                  calculators *

·                  calculator watches

·                  spell checkers

·                  dictionaries

·                  highlighters

·                  slide rules

·                  backpacks

·               briefcases

·               electronic pagers or watches with alarms set to go off

·               photographic or recording devices

·               packages

·               extra paper

·               notebooks

·               textbooks

·                           any handwritten or printed materials

Bringing any of these materials to a test administration and/or using them at the test site may result in the voiding of your test score(s).

 

*Calculators.  Calculators will be provided for the written exam.  You may use only the calculator that is provided.  Documentation of the calculators provided will be included with your written exam admission package.

 

During testing, only pencils, the test booklet and envelope and the answer document will be allowed on your desk/table as well as any other materials provided by the Technical Teacher Testing Program for your use.  During the test administration, you may not communicate with other candidates or any unauthorized persons in any way, including in person or by means of any communication device.

 

IMPORTANT:  Personal digital assistance and all other types of electronic information or communication devices are strictly prohibited in the testing center.  Possession or use of any such device may result in the voiding or your test score(s).

 

Water bottles with secure lids will be permitted in the testing center provided that they are left under the seat, not on the desk, during testing.  The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program is not responsible for any damage to answer documents, and no additional time will be allowed to copy answers onto a new answer document if a spill does damage an original document.  Water bottles that do not have completely secure lids are not permitted.

 

Visitors are not permitted in the testing center.  Friends and relatives, including children, must remain in the main lobby.


H.  Leaving the Examination

When you have finished your examination, return your calculator and examination envelope (containing your examination and answer sheet) to the Examination Proctor.  You may then sign out, signifying that all materials have been returned.  At this point you must leave the Testing Center.  Please do not engage the Proctor in conversation.  This is inconsiderate to other candidates and precludes the Proctor from attending to the task at hand.  Should you become ill and unable to finish the test you may leave before the end of the test session.  In this case, your score will be reported as usual unless you request that your score be cancelled.  Except as specifically set forth above, you may not leave the testing center in which you have been seated for any purpose (other than to use the restroom as permitted) until your test materials have been collected.  Any questions should be directed through the Testing Program Office, open weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

 

I.  Notification of Written Exam Results

Your score report will include information regarding whether you met the passing score on the test, your total test score, and a description of your performance on the sub areas or sections of the test.  Test scores are reported in a range from 0 to 100, with a score of 70 representing the passing score.  Exam results are mailed by the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program located at Greater Lowell Technical High School.  Test results of the Written Examination are mailed to the candidates within three working days of the examination.  These examination results are also sent to Massachusetts D.O.E simultaneously.  If you have not received your results after a reasonable amount of time to allow for normal mail delivery, you should call the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program to insure that your letter was not lost in the mail.  (Please review the sample written exam candidate score report on page 21).

 

J.  Score Verification Service

Multiple-choice answer sheets are machine scored, which gives virtually 100 percent accuracy.  Performance Exams are scored on scoring rubrics which reflect Candidate performance.  However, occasionally test Candidates feel their scores have been reported incorrectly.  You may request exam score verification of a Written and Performance test score if you feel the score is in error by submitting the score verification request form, Appendix A, within two weeks of receipt of your test scores.

 

V. TESTING REGULATIONS

 

A.  Testing Rules

A testing center supervisor is authorized to dismiss you from a test session and/or your scores may be canceled by the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program for infractions, but is not limited to the following:

 

·         obtaining improper access to the test, a part of the test, or information about the test

·         referring to, looking through, or working on any test, or test sections, other than during the testing period for the test

·         using any prohibited aids in connection with the test, such as compasses, protractors, rulers, watch alarms, listening devices and recording or photographic devices

·         leaving the testing room without permission

·         attempting in any manner to remove from the testing center any part of the test book or any notes relating to the test

·         attempting to give or receive assistance, or otherwise communicate, in any form, with another person about the test, during the test administration

·         attempting to take the test for someone else

·         creating a disturbance or behaving inappropriately

·         failing to follow any of the test administration regulations contained in this Candidate Handbook, given by the test supervisor, or specified in any test materials

 

All test Candidates must sign in before testing indicating their agreement with the conditions set forth in the Candidate Handbook.  Failure to comply with this requirement will result in the cancellation of the test appointment with no refund of test fees.

 

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will be notified of any test Candidates involved in misconduct.


B.  Voiding of Test Scores

If you violate one of the Testing Regulations listed above, a report of the incident will be sent to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

 

The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program takes reasonable security precautions in developing, administering, and processing the Vocational Technical Skills tests and test scores.  If doubts are raised about your registration or your score(s), the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program will notify the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and other parties as deemed appropriate by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program reserves the right to void any test score if in their sole opinion there is adequate reason to question its validity or legitimacy due to misconduct (including, but not limited to, a violation of the rules set forth in this Candidate Handbook, including the rules of Testing Regulations, and the rules communicated to you, orally or in writing, at the test administration) or to circumstance within or beyond the examinee’s control.  Other actions, may be taken as deemed appropriate by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program.

 

C.  Cancellation of Scores

 The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program strives to report scores that accurately reflect the performance of every candidate.  Accordingly, the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program’s standards and procedures for administering tests have two primary goals: giving candidates equivalent opportunities to demonstrate their abilities, and preventing some candidates from gaining an unfair advantage over others.  To promote these objectives, the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program reserves the right to cancel any test score when, in the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program’s judgment, a testing irregularity occurs, there is an apparent discrepancy in test Candidate’s identification, the candidate engages in misconduct, or the score is invalid for another reason.  Reviews of scores by the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program are confidential.  Before canceling scores, the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program notifies the test candidate in writing about its concerns, gives the test candidate an opportunity to submit information that addresses the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program’s concerns, considers any such information submitted, and offers the candidate a choice of options.  The options include candidate score cancellation, arbitration in accordance with the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program’s Test Appeal Process or a free retest.

 

i.  Identification of Discrepancies When, in The Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program’s judgment, or the judgment of testing personnel, there is a discrepancy in a test Candidate’s identification, the test candidate may be dismissed from the testing center.  In addition, the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program may decline to score the test or cancel the test score.

 

ii.  Misconduct If, in the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program’s judgment, or the judgment of the testing personnel, a test candidate engages in misconduct in connection with a test, the candidate may be dismissed from the testing center; in addition, the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program may decline to score the test or cancel the test score.  Misconduct refers to noncompliance with Testing Regulations (refer to Section V, A)

 

iii.  Test Irregularities “Testing Irregularities” refers to problems with the administration of a test.  When testing irregularities occur, they may affect an individual or groups of test Candidates.  Such problems include, without limitations,

·         administrative errors (such as improper timing, improper seating, defective materials, and defective equipment)

·         other disruptions of test administrations (such as natural disasters and other emergencies)

 

When testing irregularities occur, the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program may decline to score the test, or cancel the test score.  When it is appropriate to do so, the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program gives the affected candidate the opportunity to retest as soon as possible without charge.

 


D.  Test Appeal  The Technical Teacher Testing Program provides Written Examination failing candidates with the opportunity to appeal their examination in the event of extenuating circumstances or test irregularities as listed in section V C iii.  The appeal process ensures that any test irregularities resulting from the incorrect administration of an examination is rectified.  The Candidate should recognize that the purpose of the appeal is not to be used as a strategy to teach you the skills required.

 

          A.         Requests for Written Exam Appeals must be made in writing and indicating the basis for the appeal.  The request must be received no later than two weeks of receipt of exam results.  Requests for appeals made after the time line has expired cannot be granted..

 

          B.     The program director will present the case at the next Test Appeal Subcommittee Meeting where the board will determine if an appeal is warranted.

 

          C.     All final decisions concerning Written Examination Appeals can only be made by the Test Appeal Subcommittee during a scheduled meeting, not at the time of the candidate's appeal.  Since an individual's testing information is confidential, no information can be given out over the telephone to either the candidate or a third party.

 

          D.    The candidate will be notified in writing of the decision of the Test Appeal Subcommittee regarding your Written Exam Appeal within one week of the scheduled Test Appeal Subcommittee Meeting.

 

E.  Retesting a Test

Candidates who wish to retake a failing test may do so at any subsequent test administration.  If you wish to retest you must submit a new registration form and payment.

 

VI. TESTING

 

A.  Test Taking Strategies

A strategy is a plan.  Having an intelligent plan or strategy will help you improve your performance on tests.

 

Before the test get a good night’s sleep for the test.  Eat a healthy breakfast, wear comfortable cloths and relax; it’s just a test.

 

Make sure you know how much time you have to take the test.  You want to pace yourself as you take the test, just as you would a long race.  Don’t work so fast that you start making careless errors.  At the same time, don’t get bogged down on any one question.

 

One way to budget your time is to answer all the easy questions first.  Then go back and answer the questions that were difficult for you.

 

Multiple choice questions ask you to choose the right answer from a group of possible answers.

 

STRATEGY 1: Be sure you understand the directions.

 

Ask Yourself – What am I being asked to do?

ü  Shade in the bubble

 

STRATEGY 2: Read the question carefully.

 

Decide what the question is asking you to do.

For example – which is NOT an example of…

                        which is the INCORRECT answer…

 

STRATEGY 3: See if you know the answer to the question before you even look at the choices.


STRATEGY 4: If you need to look at the choices, read them all before deciding.  You may believe the first option is the correct one, but check out the remaining choices anyway.  The most correct answer may be further down the list.  The last choice could even be “All of the above” or “None of the above” response.

 

STRATEGY 5: Be very careful with “All of the above” choices.  If two of the choices seem right to you and you have no idea about the third choice your best bet is “All of the above” the same strategy applies to “None of the above”.

 

If two of the responses seem incorrect and you’re not sure about the third, “None of the above” may be your best bet.

 

STRATEGY 6: If you are not sure which answer is right eliminate, or cross out, all the answers you know are wrong.  Pick the best answer from the remaining choices.  This strategy is called Process of Elimination.

 

STRATEGY 7: Look for the longest answer.  If you have no idea which answer is correct, look for the longest choice.  The longest choice is at times the correct one.

 

STRATEGY 8: Don’t spend a lot of time on a question that has you stumped.  Put a “?” next to the question and come back to it later.

 

STRATEGY 9: Don’t leave any blanks on the test.  You are not penalized for guessing.  Give it your best shot!!!

 

STRATEGY 10: You are allowed to write in the test booklet.  Make notes, do your process of elimination strategy by crossing out answers, put question marks on questions, or use any other helpful strategies that work for you.  Scratch paper will not be used in this exam.

 

STRATEGY 11: Tips for Mathematic Questions

·         Look for shortcuts.  For example, you know that an odd number multiplied by an odd number gives an odd number for an answer.  If only one of the choices is an odd number, it has to be correct.

·         Replace an unusual symbol with its definition.

·         Work in consistent units.  If one side of a rectangle is given in inches and another in feet, convert them both to feet or inches before you multiply or add.

·         Don’t do all the computations in your head.

·         Complete your computations in your test booklet.

 

STRATEGY 12: Tips for related Science and Technology Questions

·    Read diagrams carefully; they are always important to finding the correct answer.

·    Mark up any diagrams if it will help you answer a question.

·    Don’t do all computations in your head.

 

STRATEGY 13: Test Taking Tactics

·    Change answers only if you have a good reason.

·    Check frequently to make sure you are answering the questions in the right spot.

·    You don’t have to answer every question to do well.

 

B.  How to Mark the Answer Sheet

To complete the answer sheet properly, you must use a No. 2 pencil, completely fill in the space corresponding to your answer, mark only one answer per question, and erase all stray marks.  If you change your mind about an answer be sure to erase your first mark completely.  Do not write on your answer sheet until directed to do so.

 

Be certain your identifying information exactly matches the information on your Admission Letter.

 

 


 

VII. THE PERFORMANCE EXAMINATION

 

A.  Scheduling the Performance Examination Performance Examinations are offered twice during the year in Fall and Spring, at several different vocational technical school sites.  Not all Performance Examinations in every technical area are given each round.  However, a Performance Examination is scheduled at least once during the school year in the fall or spring in each vocational technical licensure area in which exams have been developed, even if there is only one candidate.  Additional exams may be administered on alternative dates only under special circumstances.  If you are registered for a Performance Examination and it is not offered, you will be notified accordingly and informed of the next available test administration for your vocational technical licensure area.

 

B.  Before the Examination You may register for a performance exam ONLY AFTER you have passed the Written Examination in your area.  After you register, you will receive an Admission Letter, a map to the examination site, and an Outline of the Performance Examination.  If you CANNOT POSSIBLY take the examination on the date you are scheduled, please call the Technical Teacher Testing Program Office.

 

C.  What to Bring to the Examination You must bring your Admission Letter and a government issued picture ID to the Performance Examination.  When scheduled for the Performance Examination, some candidates will receive specific written instructions with their Admission Letter if they are required to bring their own tools or utensils or if there are any special dress requirements, in order to take the examination.  If no special requirements are stated, then nothing should be brought.  Please do not bring any materials which are not specifically noted on the Examination Outline. Reference material, notebooks, cell phones or any other electronic devices, or briefcases will not be allowed into the Performance Examination shop/lab and the staff is not responsible for your property while you are taking the examination.

 

D.  Arrival at the Examination Site Allow plenty of time to arrive at the examination site since you are expected to arrive on time.  Not being able to find the school or excessive traffic is not an acceptable excuse.  If you are unsure of the location of the school it is your responsibility to find out it’s location prior to the examination date.  A detailed map with directions to the Performance Examination site is provided and should be consulted prior to your commute.  If you do not appear at the examination site at the scheduled time, you may not be admitted to the exam at the discretion of the Site Coordinator or examiner, however test orientation will not be repeated for late exam arrivals and no additional time will be granted.  If you do not appear for your scheduled exam you will forfeit your Registration Fee and will need to Re-register for the next exam. 

 

E.  At the Examination Site There will be signs or a person to direct you to your Performance Examination check in.  A Performance Examination Site Coordinator is fully in charge at each test site and has the authority to either allow or not allow you into the examination if you arrive late.  You must have your government issued picture ID and your Performance Examination Admission Letter.  The Coordinator will identify you as eligible for the examination.  Part of the Performance Examination candidate check in process requires that you sign a Waiver of Responsibility Form.  This form states that you will not hold the examiners, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program, Greater Lowell Technical High School or the Exam Site responsible for any accident which may occur during the Performance Examination.  If you do not sign this form, you will not be allowed to take the Performance Examination.

 

The Performance Exam Coordinator also has the right to remove you from the examination if you appear to be working in a way that may endanger yourself or others, or could cause harm to shop, lab, or school equipment.

 

If you feel that you have not been treated fairly at any point during the Performance Examination and if you have specific comments regarding the exam, place your concern in writing on the comment sheet included in your performance exam admission packet and mail it to the Testing Program Office.  Do not take up your complaint with the Performance Examiner or the Coordinator.

 


F.  During the Examination The Performance Examination Site Coordinator will direct you to the shop/lab where the examination will be held.  An additional half hour has been built into the Performance Examination time for orientation to the shop/lab in which you will take your examination.  The examiners are responsible for this orientation, and it may vary depending on the nature of the shop/lab.  Some of the items which should be covered in this shop/lab orientation are ground rules for the examination, method of scoring the examination, location of machinery or work stations, how materials will be distributed and marked, routine for obtaining tools, location of fire exits and extinguishers, location of other safety equipment, school rules relative to smoking, location of restrooms, and availability of refreshments, if any.  If you still have questions after the shop/lab orientation, don't be afraid to ask an examiner.  Find out what kinds of questions will be permissible during the examination.  Be sure that you understand what is expected of you before the time has started.  A candidate who poses to be a safety concern during the exam will be prevented from continuing with the exam.

 

G.  Leaving the Examination At the end the exam, which may be four to five hours depending on the licensure area being tested, the Performance Examiner will notify you that your time is up and you will be required to immediately stop your work.  During the orientation, determine the process to be used for returning tools to the proper places, your finished products and examination materials to the examiners.  If you were given instructions for marking your products, be sure that all items are clearly marked.  Be sure you know where and to whom you are to give any finished products, so that you will be properly credited for your work.  Do not remove anything from the shop or laboratory except personal tools that you may have been required to bring with you.  All products made during the examination become the property of the Technical Teacher Testing Program.

 

If you should become ill during the examination, notify an examiner at once.  There are two options possible; The examiner can stop time, and allow you to recover.  If you recover and can proceed, the examiner may allow the extra time for you to finish.  If you cannot recover and must leave, you must notify the Performance Site Examination Coordinator. 

 

VIII. NOTIFICATION OF PERFORMANCE EXAMINATION RESULTS

 

Seventy percent (70%) is the passing score for the Performance Examinations.  Exam results are mailed by the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program, at Greater Lowell Technical High School.  Test results of the Performance Examination are mailed within thirty (30) business days of the examination.  These examination results are also sent to Massachusetts D.O.E simultaneously.  If you have not received your results after a reasonable amount of time, beyond the thirty business days of the exam, to allow for normal mail delivery, you should call the Testing Program Office to insure that your letter was not lost in the mail.

 

Please do not call this office or the school to ask for examination results.  They cannot, under any circumstances,  be given out over the telephone and PLEASE DO NOT ASK YOUR PERFORMANCE EXAMINER FOR INFORMATION REGARDING YOUR SCORE.  THE EXAMINERS ARE NOT ALLOWED

TO DISCUSS YOUR SCORE ON A PERFORMANCE EXAMINATION.

 

IX. THE EXAMINATION APPEAL

 

The Technical Teacher Testing Program provides Performance Examination failing candidates with the opportunity to appeal their examination in the event of extenuating circumstances such as malfunction of equipment, administrative errors or other discrepancies of test administration described in V C iii.  The appeal process ensures that any test irregularities which occurred at the administration of an examination is rectified.  The Candidate should recognize that the purpose of the appeal is not to be used as a strategy to teach the candidate the skills required.

 

Requests for Performance Exam Appeals must be made in writing and indicating the basis for the appeal.  The request must be received no later than two weeks of receipt of exam results.  Requests for appeals made after the time line has expired cannot be granted.

 

The program director will present the case to the Test Appeal Subcommittee Meeting where the subcommittee will determine if an appeal is warranted.  If an appeal is warranted, it will be scheduled at the exam site with the examiner and a member of the Test Appeal Subcommittee or the Program Director.


All final decisions concerning the Performance Examination Appeals can only be made by the Test Appeal Subcommittee at a scheduled meeting, not at the time of the candidate's appeal.  Since an individual's testing information is confidential, no information can be given over the telephone to either the candidate or a third party.

 

A.  Scheduling the Performance Examination Appeal

Performance Examination Appeals may take up to four (4) months to schedule.  All Performance Examination Appeal meetings will be at the test site in which the examination took place or at the office of the Massachusetts Technical Teacher Testing Program.  The Performance Examiner and a member of the Test Appeal Subcommittee will be present at the Performance Examination Appeal.  The Performance Examination Appeal requires the scheduling of the examiner, a Test Appeal Subcommittee Member, and the candidate.  The Testing Program will schedule a Performance Appeal within eight weeks of the Test Appeal Subcommittee’s decision.  However, during the summer months this is not always possible, but a Performance Exam Appeal will be scheduled in advance of the next round of Performance Exams.  The candidate will be notified in writing of the time and place of the meeting.  If the candidate fails to appear at the Performance Examination Appeal without attempting to reschedule, the Performance Examination Appeal process is terminated and the right to appeal is forfeited.

 

B.  The Performance Examination Appeal Guidelines

The candidate, examiner, and a representative of the Test Appeal Subcommittee are present for the appeal.  The Test Appeal Subcommittee member explains the ground rules:

 

a.        The Performance Examination Appeal will be limited to 30 minutes and deals only with the issue contested in the appeal, after which time the appeal meeting must end.

b.        If scoring is contested, the candidate may see the score sheet used to evaluate her/him. The candidate may question the examiner regarding the meaning of the scores.

c.       The candidate's products are available for inspection if possible, only if this is part of the appeal.

d.       The examiner may respond to all questions.

e.       The examiner may discuss the meaning of the scores given.

f.        The examiner may use any of the data available to her/him such as standard score sheet comments or notes made on the candidate's product itself.

g.       The examiner will not instruct the candidate on the correct procedures or product that the candidate did not demonstrate or produce during the examination.

 

The Test Appeal Subcommittee member will moderate the discussion and record the proceedings of the meeting, either by taking notes or by audiotaping the meeting at his/her discretion.  All final decisions regarding appeals will be made only at a scheduled meeting of the Test Appeal Subcommittee held after the appeal is completed, with the written and/or oral input of the Test Appeal Subcommittee member in attendance at the candidate's appeal.

 

C.  Performance Examination Appeal Outcome

The decision of the entire Test Appeal Subcommittee regarding the outcome of any appeal is final.

 

The candidate will be notified in writing of the decision of the Test Appeal Subcommittee regarding your performance exam appeal within one week of the scheduled Test Appeal Subcommittee Meeting.

 

 

X. TITLE IX AND 622 AND E.E.O. COMPLIANCE

 

The Massachusetts Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program will not discriminate against any Candidate for Vocational Technical Educator Licensure Examinations on the basis of sex, race, color, disability, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation.  All Program Policies, Procedures, Exams, and Exam Materials are reviewed periodically to ensure that they are free of any gender or racial stereotypes.  The Greater Lowell Technical High School and the Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program are Equal Educational Opportunity Employers and are in compliance with Title IX, Chapter 622, Section 504.

 

Ms. Valerie Murphy (978) 441-4955 is the Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator.  


SAMPLE        SAMPLE        SAMPLESAMPLE 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


SAMPLE        SAMPLE        SAMPLESAMPLE 2

APPENDIX A

Massachusetts Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program

Greater Lowell Technical High School

250 Pawtucket Boulevard, Tyngsboro, Massachusetts 01879-2199

Telephone: (978) 441-4946 – Fax: (978) 441-5344

Email:  techteachtest@gltech.org

www.gltech.org/TeacherTesting.htm

 

2009-2010 SCORE VERIFICATION REQUEST FORM

 

Complete this form to request verification of your test score(s).  Your request must be received no later than the specified date below.  Telephone, telegram and faxed requests will not be accepted.  You will be sent the results of your score verification request with four weeks. 

 

FIRST NAME:                                             

MI:                

LAST NAME:                                                           

 

 

 

STREET ADDRESS:                                                                                                     

APT.#:                     

 

 

 

CITY:                                                           

STATE:                                                 

ZIP:                          

 

 

 

SOCIAL SECURITY #:                   -                   -                  

TELEPHONE #:

(           )              -              

 

 

 

E-MAIL:                                                                      

DAYTIME TELEPHONE #:

(           )              -              

 

 

 

TEST AREA:

                                                                                        

TEST DATE:

                                              

 

Written Test Dates

Verification Requests Received

By the Testing Program by

Date by which Results of Verification

 will be mailed by the Testing Program

July 25, 2009

August 25, 2009

September 25, 2009

September 12, 2009

October 12, 2009

November 12, 2009

October 3, 2009

November 3, 2009

December 3, 2009

December 5, 2009

January 5, 2010

February 5, 2010

February 27, 2010

March 27, 2010

April 27, 2010

March 20, 2010

April 20, 2010

May 20, 2010

April 10, 2010

May 10, 2010

June 10, 2010

Performance Test Dates

Verification Requests Received

By the Testing Program by

Date by which Results of Verification will be mailed by the Testing Program

November 14, 2009

Within Two (2) Weeks of Receipt of Score

Within four (4) Weeks of Receipt of Request

May 22, 2010

Within Two (2) Weeks of Receipt of Score

Within four (4) Weeks of Receipt of Request

 

BE SURE TO ENCLOSE Your $35.00 Score Verification Fee.  The Testing Program DOES NOT ACCEPT Personal Checks.  ALL PAYMENT OF EXAM FEES MUST BE IN THE FORM OF CERTIFIED CHECK, BANK CHECK, MONEY ORDER, OR CASH.  MADE PAYABLE TO:  GLTHS TEACHER TESTING

 

                                                                                                                                                                                               

Signature                                                                                                                     Date

 

FOR PROGRAM OFFICE USE ONLY (DO NOT WRITE IN THE BOX BELOW)

 

 

Bank Check/Money Order #:

 

Amount:

 

 

 

Bank ID #:

 

Reg. Date:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

APPENDIX B

Massachusetts Vocational Technical Teacher Testing Program

Greater Lowell Technical High School

250 Pawtucket Boulevard, Tyngsboro, Massachusetts 01879-2199

Telephone: (978) 441-4946 – Fax: (978) 441-5344

Email:  techteachtest@gltech.org

www.gltech.org/TeacherTesting.htm

 

ALTERNATIVE TESTING ARRANGEMENTS REQUEST FORM

 

COMPLETE AND RETURN THIS FORM TO THE ABOVE LISTED ADDRESS.

Attention: Teacher Testing Program

 

Candidate Name:                                                                                                                      

 

Social Security #:                                                                                                                     

 

Test Area:                                                                                                                                

 

Note:    To ensure that there is adequate time to process your request, you are strongly encouraged to submit alternative testing arrangements requests no later than 30 calendar days prior to your requested test date.  You must also submit a 2009-2010 Registration Form, (Appendix C) along with this form.

 

Identify the disability that requires you to receive alternative testing arrangements. Use the specific terminology for your diagnosed disability.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

List the specific alternative testing arrangement(s) that you are requesting.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


APPENDIX B

Documentation (check one of the following):

¨       I am requesting alternative testing arrangements listed below because of a disability. Therefore, I have enclosed medical documentation as indicated on page 10 of the Candidate Handbook.

·         wheelchair-accessible facilities

·         frequent breaks (e.g., for those with hypoglycemia or diabetes)

·         use of a magnifying glass, color overlays, or a ruler (e.g., for those with a visual impairment)

·         use of a scribe for a written response to an open-response item (e.g., for those with a motor impairment)

·         extra testing time due to a learning disability

¨       Check here if you are requesting a Monday administration because you are unable to take the test at the regularly scheduled Saturday administration due to your religious practices or Military reasons.

 

Previous alternative testing arrangements (check one of the following):

¨       I have not previously been granted alternative testing arrangements for the Technical Teacher Testing Program Skills Exams.

¨       For a previous administration of the Technical Teacher Testing Program Skills Exams, I was granted the same alternative testing arrangements as I am currently requesting. (Please indicate the most recent test date: _____________________)

¨       For a previous administration of the Technical Teacher Testing Program Skills Exams, I was granted different alternative testing arrangements from those that I am currently requesting. (Please explain, including the test date.)

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

                                                                                                                           &