We’ve made it our mission to ensure that every English learner receives fair and valid assessments, which is why we’re excited to announce the launch of the Alt ELPA Screener Pilot! Not just another test, the Alt ELPA Screener is a first-of-its-kind assessment designed specifically for students with significant cognitive disabilities who may also be English learners.
The Alt ELPA Screener Pilot opened in Tennessee on July 1, 2024, and in Arizona, Arkansas, Iowa, Nebraska, and West Virginia in early August 2024.
This pilot is not just about testing—it’s a crucial learning period to fine-tune our assessment methods for the operational year 2025-26. For more information about the Alt ELPA Screener Pilot, read our FAQ below. Together, we’re shaping the future of English language proficiency assessments. Thank you to everyone who’s been a part of this journey so far, and an extra special thanks to all the teachers and students who will be participating in this pilot phase. Your support and dedication are what make initiatives like this possible.
Which ELPA21 states are participating in the Alt ELPA Screener Pilot?
Arizona, Arkansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee, and West Virginia
When does it start?
Opening dates for the pilot vary by state—TN is the first state with an open date of July 1. Other states opened the pilot in early August 2024.
When does the pilot close?
Dates vary by state, but the screener window for the pilot phase will close between May and July 2025.
Who takes the assessment?
This will vary state to state and will include potential English learners who may qualify or have qualified for the alternate assessment. Inclusion criteria will vary by state. Contact your state ELPA21 representative for more information.
What is the purpose of the Alt ELPA Screener pilot?
The pilot is to administer and study the new assessment, its procedures, and its accompanying materials. It also gives educators and test administrators an opportunity to introduce the specialized screener to eligible, state-identified students (per each state’s policy) and to collect data to refine the design and test administrator training of the Alt ELPA Screener for school year 2025-26.
What domains are being assessed with the Alt ELPA Screener Pilot?
Questions in the four domains of listening, reading, speaking, and writing are included on the Alt ELPA Screener.
How many items are on the test?
For SY 2024-25, each student will see 2 practice questions and 15 scored questions.
How long will it take?
Early estimates indicate that the Alt ELPA Screener will take between 10 and 16 minutes to administer, once a student is logged into the assessment.
What is different about the pilot and the operational Alt ELPA Screener?
The Alt ELPA Screener Pilot is a short, fixed form assessment without designated stopping points. The operational Alt ELPA Screener will have stopping points, similar to the ELPA21 Dynamic Screener.
How is the screener administered?
The Alt ELPA Screener is administered in the same manner as the Alt ELPA Summative assessment. It is a one-to-one, teacher-to-student assessment, using the online testing system and accompanying materials.
How will someone giving the pilot screener access it?
For participating states, the Alt ELPA Screener will be accessible through each state’s assessment portal.
Where are the instructions for test administrators?
Instructions for test administrators are in the TAM in each state’s assessment portal. Teacher directions and rubrics are available in TIDE. Training is provided via each state’s assessment portal based on state requirements.
Is there a practice test for the Alt ELPA Screener Pilot?
Yes. The Alt ELPA practice test is available on each participating state’s assessment portal. There are also two (2) practice test items embedded at the beginning of the pilot.
How will this assessment be scored?
The Alt ELPA Screener is scored by modality, just as the Alt ELPA Summative is scored.
What information will this assessment produce?
The pilot produces modality scores and a proficiency determination for test takers. The screener also meets federal student assessment requirements by assessing potential ELs in all four domains of language.
Will scores be shared with educators and families?
For participating states, screener outcomes will be shared per state and school district procedures.