Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL)

WASL Information for Parents revised

Alternate Assessment Board Update

OSPI School Report Cards

Students with Special Needs

Every student deserves the opportunity to learn and to be challenged. But some students need more help, more time than others and maybe a different way to show they’re making progress and achieving success.

Washington provides multiple ways for students with an Individual Education Program (IEP) to participate in the state testing system. The following options are available:

1. Take the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) without accommodations
2. Take the WASL with accommodations that are identified in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP)
3. Take the WASL-Modified (WASL-MO) – Students take the WASL at grade-level but "passing" is adjusted from proficient (Level 3) to basic (Level 2). Testing accommodations are available if consistent with the student's IEP.
4. Access the Washington Alternate Assessment System (WAAS)
   • Developmentally Appropriate WASL (WAAS-DAW) Grades 11 and 12 only– Students take the grade-level WASL that most closely matches their current development/instructional level. To pass the WAAS-DAW, students must earn proficiency (Level 3) on the test they take. Testing accommodations are available if consistent with the student's IEP.
   • WAAS-Portfolio – Students unable to participate in paper and pencil tests show their skills and knowledge through a collection of their work.

All high school students are expected to participate in the state testing system and show a certain level of reading, writing and math skills in order to be eligible to graduate.

Decisions about how students with an IEP will participate in state testing are often made during the annual IEP meeting. Know what questions to ask during this meeting and what supports are available for your child by reading "The WASL, WAAS and Students Receiving Special Education Services."

Students with a Section 504 Plan may choose to take their grade-level WASL with or without accommodations.

• Getting ready for your child’s annual IEP Team Meeting? Print out a copy of "WASL, WAAS and Students who Receive Special Education Services." It will answer some of your questions about statewide testing for your special needs student and arm you with questions to ask your child’s IEP team.
• View the state "Guidelines for Participation and Testing Accommodations for Special Populations in State Assessment Programs."
• Learn about the Certificate of Academic Achievement and Certificate of Individual Achievement. Students earn one of the certificates that are required for graduation depending on how they participate in the state testing system.
• Having trouble getting answers or help for your child? Contact Kristin Hennessey, the state’s Special Education Ombudsman, at or 360.725.6075. Learn more about the Ombudsman role.