Student testing provides information on what students know and are able to do as well as how well the curriculum has been taught and learned. The North Carolina Testing Program is supplemented by local tests and assessments to provide the objective data upon which instruction can be planned and delivered. Testing and assessment is constantly changing to reflect revisions in the curriculum and ensure that students are acquiring the skills that will prepare them to live and work in the 21st century.

In June 2008, the North Carolina State Board of Education adopted recommendations from a Blue Ribbon Commission on Assessment and Accountability that will provide the framework for change to develop the next century of tests and assessments. The first steps toward achieving this goal will begin during the 2008-2009 school year, with more adjustments coming later.
Depending upon their grade assignment, students may be assessed with the following tests or assessments during 2008-2009:

North Carolina End-of-Grade Tests of Reading, Math, and Science
North Carolina End-of-Course Tests of Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, English I, Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Civics and Economics, and U.S. History
North Carolina Writing Assessments
North Carolina Test of Computer Skills
North Carolina Competency Tests of Reading and Math
Rowan-Salisbury InView Aptitude Test
Rowan-Salisbury Writing Assessments
Rowan-Salisbury Test of Computer Skills
Rowan-Salisbury Algebra Aptitude Test
NAEP Tests of Reading, Math, and Science