Pennsylvania Alternate System of Assessment (PASA)
The PA Alternate System of Assessment Dynamic Learning Maps (PASA DLM) are adaptive alternate assessments for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities for whom general state assessments are not appropriate, even with accommodations. Eligibility for participation in PASA DLM is determined by the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team. The IEP team reviews participation in statewide assessments annually using the PASA Eligibility Criteria: Decision Making Companion Tool and determines whether the student will participate in the general assessment or the PASA DLM. The IEP Team must answer “YES" to all six PASA eligibility criteria in order to participate in the alternate assessment.
PASA DLM assessments offer students with the most significant cognitive disabilities a way to show what they know and can do in English language arts, mathematics, and science. The assessments can also help parents and educators set high academic expectations for their students. Results from PASA DLM assessments can be used to inform instruction and meet Pennsylvania's accountability requirements for reporting student achievement.
PASA DLM assessments are designed to maximize accessibility for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities. Students taking DLM assessments have access to unique accessibility tools and supports that meet their needs and preferences. Some tools and supports are built into the online assessment system while others are provided by the teacher. Educators and IEP teams decide which tools and supports students need.
PASA DLM is aligned to grade-level standards and Essential Elements. Essential Elements are reduced in depth, breadth, and complexity. Students eligible for the PASA DLM receive instruction aligned to Essential Elements, and the IEP must include standards-aligned goals and objectives. Explore Understanding Standards Aligned Instruction (PDF) for more information. Access more information about PASA DLM including essential elements, instructional, assessment and professional development resources at www.dynamiclearningmaps.org/pennsylvania. View essential elements, grade level standards, and mini-maps on the Standards Aligned System at www.pdesas.org.
Vendor
The Dynamic Learning Maps®(DLM®) Alternate Assessment System Consortium currently serves as the PASA assessment and vendor.
PA DLM Homepage
Training and Important Dates
2024-25 PASA Important Dates:
| Required Test Administrator Training (PASA AC and Assessors) | August 6, 2024 - December 16, 2024 |
| PIMS PASA DLM student enrollment and other data management activities | October 14, 2024 – February 3, 2024 |
| PASA Getting Ready and 1%-Tiered Survey | September 16, 2024 – October 25, 2024 |
| Test Administration Window | March 10, 2025 - May 2, 2025 |
| Electronic School Reports Available in Kite Educator Portal | Beginning June 17 , 2025 |
| Printed Score Reports Mailed | Beginning July 25,2025
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The PASA DLM Instruction and Assessment Calendar provides full details of training and requirements associated with the PASA:
2024-25 PASA DLM Instruction and Assessment Calendar (PDF)
Getting Ready Training
Eligibility Criteria
PA Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN)
The
PA Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) website hosts information about the alternate assessment system in PA, communications to the field including assessment messages to PASA Assessment Coordinators, Penn Links, Significant Cognitive Disabilities newsletter, etc.
Contact
For more information, please contact Lisa Hampe at 717-364-2323 (lihampe@pa.gov) or Lynda Lupp at 610-265-7321 (llupp@pattan.net).