Introduction to Accessibility Resources

The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) and English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC) provide a full range of assessment resources for all students, including those who are English learners and students with disabilities. These resources ensure that the assessments meet the needs of all students. Teachers are encouraged to review these resources early in the school year and provide opportunities for students to experience these resources throughout the year in classroom instruction and assessment to ensure that tests meet the needs of all students.

To learn more about accessibility resources, visit the Accessibility Resources page at the CAASPP & ELPAC webpage. In addition, watch the Introduction to Accessibility Resources video and the Importance of Implementing CAASPP and ELPAC Accessibility Resources: Voices from Educators video.

The following list defines the four different categories of student accessibility resources:

  • Universal tools are available to all students on the basis of student preference and selection.
  • Designated supports are available to all students when determined for use by an educator or team of educators (with parent/guardian and student input, as appropriate) or specified in the student’s individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 plan.
  • Accommodations must be permitted on CAASPP and ELPAC tests to all eligible students if specified in the student’s IEP or Section 504 plan.
  • Unlisted resources are non-embedded and shall be made available if specified in the eligible student’s IEP or Section 504 plan and only on approval by the California Department of Education (CDE).

The initial, interim, and summative assessments and practice and training tests contain universal tools, designated supports, and accommodations. All accessibility resources are listed and described in the CDE California Assessment Accessibility Resource Matrix, which is the definitive source of details about the accessibility resources available for CAASPP and the ELPAC. The information in this manual complements the California Assessment Accessibility Resources Matrix (Matrix).

The accessibility resources in this guide are identified as universal tools, designated supports, and accommodations. These resources are available for the listed, approved assessments and do not change the construct of what is being assessed. Students who receive these accessibility resources will receive a valid score. There is no penalty to the LEA for assigning these resources.

Visit the Student Accessibility Resources web page on the CDE website or the Accessibility Resources web page on the CAASPP & ELPAC website for more information on accessibility resources for testing.