The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania requires all school districts to administer the Keystone Exams annually. These end-of-course assessments are designed to measure student proficiency in core academic areas and are a critical component of our district’s mission to ensure all students are on track for post-secondary success.

At McDowell, students currently enrolled in Geometry, Algebra II, Math 3, Biology, or English Literature during the second semester—or those who have not previously demonstrated proficiency in a Keystone Exam—may be participating in the upcoming Spring administration. These assessments are essential not only for instructional planning but also for determining graduation readiness and fulfilling state graduation requirements.

While some students may graduate via IEP goals or alternative pathways, we remain hopeful that as many students as possible will meet proficiency through the Keystone Proficiency or Composite Pathways. Therefore, students who have not achieved a passing score may need to retake the Keystone Exams this spring or in future administration.

Click here to read the full two page letter. 

• Spring FAQ
• Spring PDE Letter
• Spring Code of Conduct
• Spring Calculator Policy
• Spring Keystone Results

Eligible students may enroll in dual enrollment classes to receive college credit before graduating high school. This is a great opportunity for students to challenge themselves, and for college-bound students to be ahead on their credit hours needed for college graduation!

View the 2025-2026 Dual Enrollment Presentation for more information.

Please click on this link for the presentation here.