English Language Proficiency Assessment for the 21st Century
Ohio is a member of the English Language Proficiency Assessment for the 21st Century, ELPA21, a group of states that adopted and is implementing the new English Language Proficiency (ELP) Standards and college- and career-ready standards.
The ELPA21 measures and reports on student’s English language proficiency overall, as well as in reading, writing, speaking, listening and comprehension. The ELPA21 replaces the Ohio Test of English Language Acquisition (OTELA).
Learn More About ELPA21
Learn more about the ELP standards and view sample test items at this website.
Ohio's Accessibility Manual
This policy document provides information about the accessibility features of Ohio’s State Tests for grades 3-8 and high school in English language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The manual helps to define the specific accessibility features available for all students, students with disabilities, students who are English language learners and students who are English language learners with disabilities. Ohio’s Accessibility System features are made up of accommodations for students with disabilities and English language learners.
Tools for Assessing Language Proficiency
For the purpose of the initial identification of ELL/LEP students, a standardized English language proficiency test must be used. Commercial tests that are available for use can be found by referencing Pages 9-10 of the handout at the link above. The NwOESC also maintains an inventory of the Language Assessment Scales (LAS) that are available to our member districts. Administrators may request them by calling 567-444-4809 or email us for more information.
Ohio's State Tests Rules Book
The Ohio Statewide Assessment Program Rules Book provides a reference for school officials responsible for statewide testing in a district or building. It also provides a general overview of Ohio's statewide testing program and shares specific information pertaining to testing at each grade level.
Ohio English Language Proficiency Assessment (OELPA)
Ohio is a member of the English Language Proficiency Assessment for the 21st Century (ELPA21) consortium which developed the English language proficiency assessment based on the English Language Proficiency Standards. Ohio's test is the Ohio English Language Proficiency Assessment (OELPA) and is based on the Ohio English Language Proficiency Standards. It replaces the OTELA.