As a part of federal requirements, districts are required to identify incoming students who qualify as English language learners (ELLs). Since the 2010-2011 academic year, Missouri districts have used the paper based W-APT screening assessment provided by WIDA.
With the move to online English proficiency testing, WIDA has also been working on an updated Online Screener – to replace the W-APT for grades 1-12. Originally, the screener was to be available prior to the start of the academic year, but the release date has been pushed back to an anticipated date of October 2016.
The W-APT Kindergarten screener will remain as is.
Implementation Schedule
For more information about ELL Screening procedures, please reference the 2016-2017 ELL Screening Process guide, found on the DESE website at:
https://dese.mo.gov/sites/default/files/asmt-ell-screening-process-guide-1617.pdf
If you have questions please contact the assessment section at 573-751-3545 or assessment@dese.mo.gov.