New York Joins WIDA Consortium, Strengthening Support for Multilingual Learners

WIDA is proud to welcome the state of New York to the WIDA Consortium. This major milestone marks an exciting step forward for multilingual learners, educators and families across the state and across the country.

Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) will begin using WIDA ACCESS Online, WIDA’s summative English language proficiency assessment. With this transition, New York will move from paper-based testing to online assessment — a shift state leaders have said they’re particularly excited about.

“NYSED is proud to join the WIDA Consortium as its 42nd member as we continue to work to better identify and assess English language learners across the state,” said Dr. Zachary Warner, Assistant Commissioner for the NYSED Office of State Assessment. “This collaboration will strengthen student outcomes while providing essential professional development and support for teachers and administrators. We look forward to the comprehensive resources WIDA has to offer and the positive impact they will have on our schools and students.”

Joining the WIDA Consortium means New York educators will now be connected to a powerful network of peers from the northeastern United States — including New Jersey, Vermont, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania — all of which are members of the WIDA Consortium. This regional and national alignment ensures more consistent support and collaboration for educators working to meet the needs of multilingual learners.

“With over 250,000 multilingual learners, New York is a strong voice in support of these students and their education,” said Samuel Aguirre, WIDA Chief Consortium and Policy Officer. “We’re excited to have them join the consortium and help them give students and educators new tools, resources and opportunities to thrive.”

New York will now have access to the full suite of WIDA’s resources, including WIDA Alternate ACCESS, a test designed for multilingual learners with the most significant cognitive disabilities, and a robust range of accommodations tailored to meet the unique needs of students.

“Gaining New York as a partner in this work is thrilling,” said Dr. Jenni Torres, WIDA Executive Director. “Joining WIDA means streamlined and easier testing administration so educators can focus more of their time where it matters the most — in the classroom.”

Attention New York educators! Subscribe to our new “WIDA in New York” email newsletter to receive information and resources to support you, your colleagues, your students and their families as you get ready for WIDA ACCESS in the 2026-2027 school year.