Spring break is winding down and kids are eaking out the most of lazy and leisure pasttimes.

The last thing on your kids minds are the CATS tests but these are coming up almost as soon as school starts on Monday, April 15.

The time, determined by the state, for testing is between April 15 and April 26.

The Commonwealth Accountability Testing System or CATS first started in the Spring of 1999.

CATS includes comprehensive testing of basic skills, writing on demand, and reading, math, social studies, arts and humanities, and science multiple-choice and open response questions, and portfolios.

The testing is divided into sections starting at the end of the primary levels (formerly the third grade).

Comprehesive testing occurs in the third grade, the sixth grade, and the ninth grade.

Fourth and seventh grades test on reading and science, writing on demand and portfolios.

Fifth and eighth grade students test on math, social studies, arts and humanitites.

Eleventh graders test in the same subjects with the addition of science and high school seniors take writing on demand assessments in addition to portfolios.

These hints from KY Department of Education can help your child obtain academic success:

Make sure your child gets a good night's sleep before and during testing.

Encourage your child to do their best.

Let your child know you think a good education is important.

Discuss homework with your child.

Encourage your child to write and ask to see examples of their portfolio.

Read with your child.

Show your child you are interested in their school work.

Also during the testing period it is important for students to be in school. Try not to schedule appointments during these two weeks to keep your child in school.