Every year, English Learner (EL) program directors, teachers, and students prepare for one of the most important milestones in language development: the annual English Language Proficiency (ELP) assessment.
These tests—such as WIDA ACCESS, ELPAC, and TELPAS—are more than just federal and state compliance requirements. They provide invaluable insights into student progress and help shape effective instructional planning. These Title III requirements help educators understand whether their EL programs are meeting student needs—at the heart of what all educators really want to know.
But for those of us who have been in the classroom, testing season isn’t just about logistics and data—it’s about the students. The ones who have worked all year to build their confidence in speaking, writing, and understanding English. The ones who still get nervous about making mistakes. The ones who, for a few weeks each year, step into a quiet room, away from their usual supports, and do their best to show everything they’ve learned.
While these tests are widely recognized as essential, testing season often highlights ongoing challenges that EL programs face year-round. From the logistical strain of EL teachers shifting from instruction to testing to navigating best testing practices in overcrowded schools, and contending with flu season and snow days, this time of year can quickly become overwhelming.
With some preparation and advocacy for EL students and staff, it can also be an opportunity to celebrate growth and refine how we support our multilingual learners. Let’s dive into what you need to know to make this year’s ELP testing season a success.
Why Annual ELP Testing Matters
Compliance: Meeting Federal and State Requirements
Annual ELP assessments aren’t optional—they’re a legal necessity. Under Title III of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), schools must evaluate EL students’ progress in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Missing deadlines or failing to properly document results can impact funding, program accountability, and overall compliance standing.
But compliance is just one piece of the puzzle.
Progress Monitoring & Instructional Adjustments
The real power of these assessments lies in their ability to measure student growth. They provide concrete data on how ELs are progressing toward English proficiency, helping educators refine lesson plans, adjust supports, and personalize learning experiences. Using this data in meaningful ways can make a huge difference in student success.
A common theme I would see with my EL students is that they would have strong speaking and listening skills but consistently struggle with writing. Because we had the data, we were able to provide targeted writing interventions, including sentence starters, modeled writing, and structured peer feedback throughout the year. I saw students grow confident in writing full paragraphs and even structured five-paragraph essays.
Without these assessments, it’s harder to pinpoint these needs and set goals within reach but still push students to grow.
Equity & Accountability
Annual ELP tests ensure that EL students are not left behind. They provide the data necessary to allocate resources equitably, ensuring multilingual learners receive the support they need to succeed. These assessments also contribute to broader school and district accountability measures, reinforcing the importance of high-quality instruction for all students.
I once had a principal tell me, “I didn’t realize how rigorous this test was until I saw the sample questions.” That moment led to more conversations about instructional support, scheduling changes to reduce disruptions for ELs, and staff-wide advocacy efforts. The more we educate colleagues and administrators about these tests, the stronger our programs become.
Different Types of ELP Assessments
WIDA ACCESS
Used in more than 40 states in the U.S., WIDA ACCESS assesses four domains—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—across different proficiency levels. It’s tiered to accommodate various skill levels and provides detailed insights into student language development.
ELPA21
Used in 10 states in the U.S., ELPA21 also assesses four domains—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—across different proficiency levels. Assessments include a screener, summative, and alternate ELP summative and is backed by psychometrics and research to meet state priorities,
ELPAC (English Language Proficiency Assessments for California)
California uses the ELPAC to measure EL students’ progress, with assessments tailored to both initial identification and annual progress monitoring.
Other State-Approved Tests
Some states use alternative assessments like TELPAS (Texas), LAS Links, or the NYSESLAT. While the formats differ, the goal remains the same: to gauge student proficiency and inform instruction.
Choosing the Right Assessment
For districts with multiple assessment options, it’s crucial to choose a test aligned with state standards and district goals. The best assessments offer actionable insights that help educators fine-tune their EL programs.
Test Prep: Setting Students Up for Success
Academic Vocabulary & Language Practice
One of the best ways to prepare students is to embed academic language practice into daily instruction through effective routines for language development. Using structured conversation prompts, interactive word walls, and targeted vocabulary lessons ensures students are familiar with key testing terms.
One year, my students and I created a “word bank wall” in the classroom. We added words they might see on the test—compare, contrast, analyze—and practiced using them in sentences daily. By test day, I could see the confidence in their faces when those words popped up.
Prep School Staff
Advocating for multilingual students takes many forms, and one impactful way EL teachers can do so is by building all teachers’ capacity for language learning and compliance. Testing season is particularly challenging for EL students—they navigate rigorous assessments, often without the usual support of their EL teacher.
To foster encouragement and awareness, I invited staff to write letters of support for students during testing. I’ll never forget the look on one student’s face when he opened a letter from his homeroom teacher that said, “I know this test is hard, but I also know how much you’ve grown. We’re all rooting for you!” That simple act not only uplifted students but also helped staff recognize the rigor and requirements EL learners face, strengthening our collective commitment to their success.
Familiarity with Test Formats
Many students struggle not because they lack language skills, but because they’re unfamiliar with the test format. Utilize sample questions, online practice tests, and teacher-led small groups to build confidence.
One strategy that worked well in my classroom was turning practice questions into a class game. Students worked in teams to solve questions, explain their reasoning, and challenge each other. By the time the test rolled around, the format felt second nature.
Reducing Test Anxiety
A nervous student isn’t going to perform at their best. Encourage mindfulness exercises, deep breathing techniques, and positive affirmations. Creating a classroom culture where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities can also alleviate stress.
One student, Ahmed, was so anxious about the test that he would barely speak during practice sessions. We started using a “confidence scale” before answering questions—on a scale of 1 to 5, how sure are you? Over time, he realized that even when he wasn’t a 5, he could still try. By the end of the test, he told me, “It wasn’t as scary as I thought.”
Parental Involvement
Parents play a crucial role in test preparation. Schools should send home resources explaining the importance of the test and how parents can support their children by reading together, encouraging conversations in both English and their home language, and ensuring students get a good night’s sleep before testing days.
Testing Tips & Best Practices
Before the Test
- Confirm logistics: Double-check scheduling, room assignments, and accommodations for students with IEPs or 504 plans.
- Tech check: Ensure all devices are charged and that students know how to navigate online testing platforms.
- Parent communication: Send reminders about test dates, sleep recommendations, and the importance of a healthy breakfast.
During the Test
- Create a calm environment: Reduce distractions, provide noise buffers if needed, and encourage a quiet, focused atmosphere.
- Be proactive: Watch for technical difficulties or students who need additional support.
- Encourage students: Simple motivational notes or a quick pre-test pep talk can make a difference.
After the Test
- Analyze the data: Once results are available, review them carefully to guide instruction.
- Celebrate progress: Recognize students’ hard work and growth, no matter their scores.
- Plan next steps: Use test data to inform targeted interventions or advanced supports as needed.
Annual ELP Testing – An Opportunity for All to Grow
Annual ELP assessments do more than satisfy compliance requirements—they provide essential insights into student growth, instructional effectiveness, and program equity. By preparing thoughtfully, engaging students, and using test results strategically, EL programs can turn testing season into a powerful tool for student success.
Testing season may shine a light on the challenges EL programs face, but it also presents an opportunity to strengthen advocacy and support for multilingual learners. Whether it’s ensuring smooth logistics for testing or rallying school staff to show encouragement, small actions can make a big difference.
From celebrating progress with students to helping staff understand the depth of these assessments, every effort we make contributes to a stronger learning environment for our multilingual learners. Let’s embrace testing season not just as an obligation, but as a chance to uplift, support, and empower EL students in their journey toward proficiency.
Here’s to a successful testing season!
Sources and Ideas for Further Reading
- U.S. Department of Education – English Learner Toolkit
U.S. Department of Education, Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA). (2016). English Learner Toolkit.
- WIDA – ACCESS for ELLs: Understanding the Assessment
WIDA Consortium. (2023). ACCESS for ELLs: Assessment Overview.
- Colorín Colorado – Supporting English Learners During Testing Season
Colorín Colorado. (2022). Best Practices for Supporting English Learners During Standardized Testing.