Hosted By: Parent Information Center of Delaware (PIC)
March 12, 2026 12:00 PM
Students with significant cognitive disabilities can still take part in Delaware’s statewide testing alongside their peers. For a small group of students (Approximately, 1% of all students), this assessment is called the DeSSA-Alt. The DeSSA-Alt is designed specifically for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities and measures progress toward academic standards in a way that fits their learning needs. Testing happens in the spring and is usually given over several shorter sessions instead of all at once.
The assessment uses something called Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM), which allows students to show what they know and can do in:
These assessments are part of Delaware’s overall testing system and are meant to support student growth. Results help teachers plan instruction, support schools in understanding student progress, and provide families with information about how their child is doing academically.
This webinar, presented by the Delaware Department of Education, will provide an overview of the DeSSA-Alt, highlight resources for families to learn more, and understanding assessment results.
Presented by: Michelle Jackson, Education Associate,
Special Populations Delaware
Department of Education
Office of Assessment
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