CPM: Can the Circle Progress Monitoring assessments be administered using printed (paper) materials between testing waves?

 Answer

Circle Progress Monitoring assessments are designed to be administered during the designated assessment waves to ensure the validity and reliability of the data collected. Using the paper versions of the assessments between waves is not recommended, as this can compromise the integrity of the assessment process and may lead to inaccurate or misleading data.

Additionally, frequent or unscheduled testing can place unnecessary stress on young children and does not typically yield meaningful insights into their development. CPM was not normed for students with disabilities, and therefore, using it outside of its intended structure—especially with paper forms—can further reduce its effectiveness.

Paper assessments are only intended for use with children who have an IEP or 504 plan, and even then, their use should be guided by local policies and decisions. We strongly recommend following the prescribed administration schedule and procedures unless accommodations are formally documented.

For more information and support, please refer to the following resources:

• Circle Progress Monitoring Accommodations Guide for Special Populations – Guidance on accommodations for children with developmental delays and disabilities.

• CPM Toolkit – Includes implementation resources and best practices.

• TEA Accommodations Resources – Offers detailed information on accommodations for state assessments.

If your team is looking for ways to support children’s development between waves, we recommend using instructional strategies and observational tools available in the Pre-K and Head Start Classroom Resources section on CLI Engage.

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