Articles

HCC Testing Centers at four sites receive national certification

Dec 16, 2024

Four Houston Community College (HCC) campus Testing Centers have earned certification from the National College Testing Association (NCTA). The distinction is a mark of excellence in test administration, highlighting the commitment of HCC’s Testing Services to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, security and integrity.

Last academic year, the HCC Testing Council set a goal to have each campus Testing Center apply for certification from the NCTA, a respected organization that sets rigorous standards for centers across the nation. To become certified, centers must adhere to national guidelines and demonstrate best practices including proper testing protocols, staff training, and compliance with security and confidentiality.

“The certification reflects the hard work of our testing teams and our dedication to providing a high-quality, secure and professional testing environment for our students,” said Piper Butler, director of testing in Student Services.

The newly certified centers were each required to provide detailed documentation about procedures, emergency plans and training of staff. Centers also gathered feedback from examinees through various surveys to rate satisfaction with testing experiences.

The sites received a visit from a knowledgeable evaluator to verify each met NCTA standards. Certification can be renewed every five years.

“Earning NCTA Certification reflects that HCC is committed to upholding the highest standards in test administration at our centers,” said Norma Perez, Ph.D., senior vice chancellor of Instructional Services and CAO. “I am delighted our teams have worked to successfully achieve this important distinction.”

HCC Testing Centers that have received NCTA certification include:

•              Alief Testing Center – Vivian Hoang, testing coordinator

•              Katy Testing Center – Roxanne Guerrero, testing coordinator

•              Northline Testing Center – Lesley Savoy-Green, testing coordinator

•              Spring Branch Testing Center – Laleh Golestani-Owji, testing coordinator

An application by the Stafford campus Testing Center has been submitted and should be approved soon.