Heather, This assessment request is very typical in some companies. They want to see what you think of your overall assessment. I would sit down and thoroughly review everything that you have been assigned and what you've accomplished since being hired. Be honest, don't gloss over things and you should have a good assessment. This is about you and your accomplishments. Don't point out the flaws in the way that they've handled things...this is all about you.
I won't sugar coat this...but they if they are down sizing, they will review everything in the way of performance, salaries, production, etc. for all employees in all areas. Some employees who are near to retirement will opt to retire or receive a severance package and go. Others will be let go and may or may not receive severance packages depending upon what has been determined by upper management and the length of service in their company. So, yes, they can still let you go even if they are requesting the self assessment. They may review it and determine that you've not reached the potential that they were expecting.
No matter what transpires, you will be okay. You've grown throughout this process, but I would still have my resume ready and starting send it out to potential companies.
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.
