Collaboration

Participation decisions should be made using a team approach

Participation decisions require consideration of a variety of factors, including (but not limited to):

• Student’s individual characteristics and needs
• Available test versions (if allowable in your state) that may include testing in a student’s native language or Simplified English tests
• State guidelines
• The curriculum in which the student participates
• Purpose of the assessment
• Consequences of participation decisions

The IEP team should fully understand the student and his or her participation options. Some team members may benefit from professional development on assessment options or related topics.

Participation decisions will be improved when the team includes individuals with knowledge of the student’s language and disability-related needs. Parents and students likely have a great deal to contribute to make appropriate participation decisions.