Our Values

Our English language assessment services are guided by a set of core values that shape our vision and direct our development and delivery.

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Growth

ELPA21 is dedicated to unlocking students’ potential by equipping them with the English language proficiency necessary for success in their academic and professional lives. We are committed to providing students with the support and resources they need to excel in their studies and beyond. We believe:

  • English learners (ELs) possess the same capacity for success as their native English-speaking peers; their unique backgrounds and experiences are invaluable assets for the educational environment.
  • ELs must acquire English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills to collaborate with their peers, including native English speakers, and learn grade-appropriate tasks.
  • All ELs are capable of making progress toward English language proficiency.

ELPA21 supports EL and content-area teachers in all states with innovative instructional support designed by educators, for educators.

  • Professional learning workshops show educators how to differentiate instruction according to domain and performance level.
  • Formative assessment principles guide educators in personalizing instruction.
  • UCLA CRESST provides a range of classroom resources and planning tools to make innovative strategies and solutions accessible to all educators.

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Collaboration

Developed in collaboration with educators and state partners, the ELPA21 assessment system is tailored to meet the needs of its stakeholders. With ELPA21, states have a voice in:

  • Assessment and item design
  • Product development
  • Stakeholder communication and communities of practice
  • Accountability plans and indicators
  • Test administrator training and test security
  • Supporting content-area educators

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Accessibility

ELPA21 assessments contain thoughtful tools and accommodations that support the unique needs of students, including those with disabilities and access requirements.

ELPA21’s flexible assessment system allows for state-specific accommodation policies. To learn more about our commitment to accessibility and the options available to our state partners, view the ELPA21 Accessibility and Accommodations Manual and the Alt ELPA Accessibility and Accommodations Manual.

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