MINNEAPOLIS, Dec. 15, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The state of Arkansas has awarded Questar Assessment Inc. the administration contract for spring 2016 English Language Proficiency Assessment for the 21st Century (ELPA21) summative assessments for grades K–12.
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As a member of the ELPA21 consortium, Arkansas is basing its assessment of K–12 English language learning (ELL) on progressive research findings that highlight students' development of English language proficiency. Questar Assessment administered the ELPA21 field test for all 11 ELPA21 consortium states in 2015 to guide the development of this English language proficiency assessment.
The computer-based assessments will test the students in the four domains of reading, writing, speaking, and listening in English with technology-enhanced test items that include drag-and-drop and voice recording technology, among many others.
"We are honored that the state of Arkansas has chosen Questar to administer their first round of summative ELPA21 tests," said Jamie Post Candee, president and chief executive officer of Questar Assessment Inc. "We are excited to continue our partnership with Arkansas beyond last year's field tests, and work together this spring to serve the state's English language learners."
Questar Assessment Inc. brings prior knowledge of the ELPA21 ELL standards after working with the 11-state ELPA21 consortium on the 2014–2015 field tests, as well as a history of success in ELL summative assessments it has previously conducted for Florida, Idaho, Michigan, Montana, New York, and Utah, as well as ELL scoring for the University of Michigan.
About Questar Assessment Inc.
Questar Assessment Inc. is a K–12 assessment solutions provider focused on building a bridge between learning and accountability. We take a fresh and innovative approach to meaningful assessment design, delivery, scoring, analysis, and reporting. And we are reimagining how assessments can empower educators by giving them the insights they need to improve instruction and fully prepare students for college or career. Our high-quality, reliable assessment products and services are easily scaled and tailored to meet the specific needs of states and districts at an unprecedented value. Educators trust our high-performing teams and dependable technology to minimize risks and ensure success for states, districts, schools, and students. Questar is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota and can be reached at questarai.com or 952-997-0700.
About ELPA21
ELPA21 is a consortium of 11 states developing an assessment system to equip English language learners, teachers, and families with the tools and support students need for college and career readiness. The consortium — Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Washington, and West Virginia — is basing its assessment system on the new English Language Proficiency Standards, which reflect the recent research and progress made in the study and development of English language proficiency. ELPA21 is collaborating with the Understanding Language Initiative of Stanford University; the National Center for Research on Evaluation, Standards, and Student Testing of the University of California, Los Angeles; and the Council of Chief State School Officers. The Oregon Department of Education is the lead state agency, and CCSSO is the project management partner. Please visit www.elpa21.org for more information.
SOURCE Questar Assessment Inc.
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