SAC newsletters

April 2022
SAC#3 -

Topics in this SAC update

• Changes to SAC online applications
• Applications
• Appeals
• The Learning Support Network
• SAC seminars recommencing

Changes to SAC online applications

A number of changes to SAC online applications have been made to further streamline the process for schools. These should take effect from the second week of term two.

Tab 6: School evidence

The reference to Lucid Ability has been removed. You may upload any test scoresheets relating to cognitive ability (e.g. CAT 4) if these are available but this is not mandatory.

Tabs 8, 9 and 10: Reading, Reading Speed and Spelling/Written & Oral Expression

There is no longer a requirement to enter the scores from any tests used although you must continue to enter the name of the test and the date completed. Please continue to upload the scoresheets from any tests used and our assessors can gather the information needed from these.

Tab 11: Writing

There is no longer a requirement to enter the name of person who administered the test.

Applications

Our assessors are working hard, however some results may be delayed if they are waiting for information.

• Please check you have uploaded the 20 minute handwriting sample for those requesting Reader and/or Computer/Writer (not required if you made an application with a Declaration).
• This 20 minute handwriting sample (previously named PATOSS) is not the dictated writing test done in Lucid (usually starts with “My dog Bill”). Free writing for 20 minutes provides valuable information for our assessors beyond speed and legibility.
• Is there a question or request from an assessor? It will have a yellow triangle next to it. Is there a yellow PR instead of a P? Click on the student’s NSN to open the application to see what is missing/required in the notes next to it. If you need to reply, write a note in the Notes & Messages section. Upload requested documents in the Documents section.

Applications do not close until later in the year.

Appeals

When SAC items are declined you may Appeal any time during that year. Appeals are no longer limited to a 3-week time period.

• We would recommend you upload actual score sheets of new data or an internal standard where the student successfully used the requested SAC to achieve, when this becomes available.
• Teacher comments that support reinstatement of the SAC are also valid indicators that the functional need is addressed by the declined SAC(s).
• If unsure quite what to do, please contact Gabe Sorensen or Paul Smith through sac@nzqa.govt.nz and provide your phone number, preferably cell phone

The Learning Support Network

The Learning Support Network (LSN) is a place and space for learning support coordinators (LSC)  and Special Education Needs Coordinators (SENCO) and others working in a dedicated Learning Support role throughout New Zealand to connect, communicate and collaborate with each other online and offline.

Upcoming SAC seminars

We are recommencing in-person SAC seminars, starting from mid-May. It will be a repeat of last year’s “SAC101” seminar as there has been a bit more turnover of Learning Support staff, so when you receive an email for one in your region please encourage those who have not been to a seminar before to attend. There may be attendance limits due to Covid restrictions and we will be using an electronic booking system for all seminars as a result.

Registration flyers are sent to PNs, SENCOs and SAC contacts in the region 2-4 weeks before. We ask that you forward it to your RTLB and Learning Support Coordinators for those who are new to assisting in secondary schools so they can attend.

If you would like to host a seminar in your region please email sac@nzqa.govt.nz