Alternatives to the 10th -grade WASL

All students, except for special needs students who are exempt through provisions in their Individualized Education Program (IEP), must take the 10th-grade WASL at least once. If the student does not pass any or all sections of the WASL in reading, writing and math after their first try, they will be able to access an alternative means to demonstrate proficiency. The purpose of these alternatives is to provide other options for capable students that may struggle on a paper and pencil test. These alternatives are to be of equal rigor to the WASL.

Collection of Evidence

Students compile a set of classroom work samples with the help of a teacher. Collections for students in Career and Technical Education programs can include work from their program and other classes. Students submit collections in June and February.

PSAT, SAT or ACT

Students may use their mathematics, reading or English and writing scores on college readiness tests to show they have key skills.

• Minimum mathematics scores: PSAT – 47; SAT – 470; and ACT – 19.
• Minimum reading and writing scores: To be determined by the State Board of Education by Dec. 1, 2007.
• Note: After Aug. 31, 2008, students may no longer substitute PSAT scores as an approved alternative.

WASL/Grades Comparison

A student's grades in mathematics courses and/or English courses are compared with the grades of students who took the same courses AND passed the WASL. This option is available to students in their senior year. To access this option, a student must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on a four-point grading scale.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Students may use a score of three or higher on selected AP exams.

• Mathematics: Calculus or statistics
• Writing: English language and composition
• Reading: English literature and composition, macroeconomics, microeconomics, psychology, United States history, world history, United States government and politics, or comparative government and politics