The Keystone Exams are quickly approaching. These end-of-course assessments provide students the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency in Algebra I, Biology, and Literature. Our teachers have been working diligently to provide high-quality instruction and prepare students for success.

All students enrolled in Keystone-tested courses, whether In-Person or EOL, are required to complete the Keystone Exams during the designated testing window. Please review the important information below.

Keystone Exam Schedule  

Spring 2026

• May 12th and 13th: Algebra I
• May 14th and 15th: Biology
• May 18th and 19th : Literature

Winter 2025

• December 11, 2025: Algebra I
• December 12, 2025: Literature
• December 15, 2025: Biology

Attendance & Scheduling Expectations – Spring Exams

• The Keystone Exam window, as scheduled by the state, will take place from May 11 through May 22, 2026. Testing at Garden Spot High School will occur from May 12 through May 19, 2026. During this time, the school will operate on a two-hour delay schedule for students.
• Students scheduled to take a Keystone Exam should arrive at school by 7:10 a.m. Buses will run on their normal schedule. Upon arrival, students will receive a grab-and-go breakfast before proceeding to their assigned testing locations.
• Students who are not scheduled to test may arrive at school at 9:20 a.m., provided they have their own transportation. Parents may drop students off at either the rear entrance or the main entrance. Doors will open at 9:20 a.m., and students will report directly to their Block 1 class. Students who are unable to arrange transportation should arrive at the regular start time and will be assigned to a supervised study hall in the cafeteria until testing concludes.
• CTC students should report as usual, and transportation will be provided. Both AM and PM CTC students are expected to attend CTC unless they are scheduled for a Keystone Exam.

Important Exam Information

The Keystone Exams are end-of-course assessments that allow students to demonstrate their knowledge in Algebra I, Biology, and Literature. Our teachers have worked diligently to prepare students for success. All students enrolled in Keystone-tested courses, whether in-person or enrolled in EOL, are required to complete these assessments to meet the graduation requirements outlined in Act 158.

Please review the following important information regarding the Keystone Exams:

Keystone Exam Dates:

May 12, 2026 Algebra Module 1
May 13, 2026 Algebra Module 2
May 14, 2026 Biology Module 1
May 15, 2026 Biology Module 2
May 18, 2026 Literature Module 1
May 19, 2026 Literature Module 2

Keystone Exam Schedule:

Keystone Exam Testing Period 7:30-9:20
Block 1 9:23-10:15
Block 2 10:18-11:03
Block 3 11:06-11:51
Block 4 11:54-12:39
Lunch/Advisory 12:42 - 1:47
Block 5 1:50-2:35

Extended Time: 9:20-10:20 - Auxiliary Cafe’ Keystone exams are not timed. Students will be provided extended time to complete the exams.

Please also note the following expectations regarding our schedule and arrival:

● Students taking Keystone Exams are expected to arrive at school at the regular time (by 7:25 AM).
● Students not participating in the Keystone Exams may remain at home during the designated testing period. Students must be at school by 9:25 am, for the start of Block 1. Students who do not have a ride to school are expected to ride the normal bus and work quietly in study hall.
● The high school will offer make-up days to any learner who misses a day of testing. The school will operate on a normal schedule during the make-up testing days.

Technology and Testing Policies:

• Student laptops must be fully charged on testing days.
• All other electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, smart watches, Kindles, etc.) are strictly prohibited in testing rooms.
• Misuse of electronic devices during testing may result in:
• Invalidated test scores
• School disciplinary action
• Financial penalties under federal copyright law (17 U.S.C. § 101 et seq.), ranging from $750 to $30,000 per violation

Weather Delays or Closures
If school is delayed or canceled due to inclement weather, Keystone Exams will be postponed to the next available school day. In the event of a delay (e.g., a 2-hour delay), students should report at the adjusted start time.

Course and Graduation Information
For students currently enrolled in a Keystone-tested course (Algebra I, Biology, or English 10), the Keystone Exam will serve as the final exam for the course. Families are encouraged to emphasize the importance of these assessments and support students in taking them seriously.

Results & Preparation
Keystone Exam results are typically received approximately two months after testing.

Individual Student Reports will be mailed home once results are available.

Students are encouraged to:

• Get adequate sleep in the days leading up to the exam.
• Eat a healthy breakfast on testing mornings.

We are confident in our students’ preparation and anticipate strong performance on the Keystone Exams.

If you have any questions, please contact the main office at (717) 354-1550.