Georgia
Member of the WIDA Consortium since 2005.
Assessments
Georgia uses WIDA Screener for Kindergarten and WIDA Screener (for Grades 1-12) to identify English language learners (ELLs). ACCESS for ELLs is given to all ELLs during the annual testing window, which typically takes place from mid-January through early March.
Testing Dates
| 10/6/21-11/22/21 | Test materials ordering available in AMS |
|---|---|
| 10/6/21-11/22/21 | LEAs load Pre-ID file into AMS |
| 12/6/21-3/4/22 | WIDA AMS test setup available for test sessions |
| 1/5/22 | Districts receive test materials |
| 1/5/22-2/25/22 | Additional test materials ordering window in AMS |
| 1/12/22-3/4/22 | Test Window |
| 3/9/22 | Deadline for shipping completed test materials to DRC |
| 3/31/22-4/13/22 | Pre-reporting data validation – LEAs in AMS |
| 4/29/22 | Districts receive reports – Online |
| 5/9/22-5/20/22 | Post-reporting data validation - LEAs in AMS |
| 5/13/22 | Districts receive reports – Printed |
| 6/7/22 | Data posted in AMS |
Requirements and Resources
See below for state-specific information and resources related to ELL assessment, including your state’s ACCESS for ELLs Checklist, where you can find each step in the ACCESS testing process from beginning to end. For additional information, see the Georgia ACCESS for ELLs page.
ACCESS for ELLs Online Checklist ACCESS for ELLs Paper ChecklistIdentification and Placement Guidance
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Georgia Specific Directions
Standards and Instructional Support
Each local educational agency (LEA) must establish a roll-out plan for the WIDA ELD Standards Framework, 2020 Edition resources. The WIDA Self-paced eWorkshop (see flyer on GaDOE ESOL Professional Learning webpage) provides the information for an LEA Professional Learning Community to support this work. In addition, LEAs have access to Study Guides in conjunction with WIDA’s self-paced eWorkshops to support educators as they engage in the professional learning cycle. LEAs are encouraged to use RESA resources to bring educators together and learn how to use the WIDA resources for teacher planning and collaboration in classrooms with English learners. Please contact ELPrograms@doe.k12.ga.us for more information.
Professional Learning
WIDA Self-Paced eWorkshops:
Starting September 1, 2021, Georgia educators have access to WIDA’s Self-paced eWorkshops professional learning opportunities. Please review the WIDA eWorkshops Flyer 2021-2022 and the Instructions to Obtain WIDA Secure Portal access on the GaDOE ESOL Professional Learning webpage. In addition, this year LEAs will have access to Study Guides in conjunction with WIDA’s self-paced eWorkshops to support educators as they engage in the professional learning cycle.