Many students with disabilities are able to participate in district and statewide assessments when provided with appropriate acc
ommodations. However, some students are not required to meet the same standards and are allowed to use _____ to provide evidence that they meet the same broad standards as other students.
According to Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, students belonging to a few disability categories (around 13) like one with cognitive disabilities can opt for alternate assessment.
These categories belong to such students who needs substantial modifications, support and requisite adaptations to the existing curricular content; those who require individualized education program or teaching to learn and acquire knowledge, and for those who cannot participate in the normal achievement tests based on academic standards even with proper accommodations.
The purpose of an alternate assessment is to ensure academic accountability to all students equally.
