Alternate Assessment for Students with
Significant Cognitive Disabilities (AASCD)
(formerly AASWD)
The AASCD marks a change in Ohio’s alternate assessment (from AASWD),
which previously consisted of a portfolio-based collection of evidence. The
AASCD is aligned to Ohio’s Academic Content Standards-Extended (OACS-E) and
designed to allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in an
appropriately rigorous assessment. The AASCD will be administered by grade
band (3-5, 6-8, OGT). All students will be assessed in English language arts and
mathematics. Students in grades 5 and 8 will also be assessed in science.
Students taking the OGT-AASCD will also be assessed in science and social
studies.
Who determines which students will participate in the AASCD?
At least annually, each student’s IEP team makes decisions concerning a
student’s participation. The State of Ohio provides IEP teams with guidelines for
participation in the AASCD.
When is the AASCD administered to students?
The testing window will run from February 24 – April 18, 2014.
Where can I find additional information about the Alternate
Assessment for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities?
Your child’s intervention specialist can provide you with information and insight
related to your child’s academic progress and achievement. For additional
information, visit the Ohio Department of Education’s website at
www.education.ohio.gov Keyword search: alternate assessment
DCS/Office of Data and Assessment/Heath/August 2013