Official Site of The State of New Jersey
Dynamic Learning Maps
All students, including students with disabilities, must take statewide assessments. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) allows for the use of alternate assessments based on alternate achievement standards for students with the most significant intellectual disabilities. Students with the most significant intellectual disabilities who meet the participation criteria will be administered the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) alternate assessment. Effective for the Spring 2026 assessment, revisions have been made to the eligibility criteria for students with disabilities participating in the alternate assessment. These changes are designed to ensure that only students with the most significant intellectual disabilities participate in the DLM.
DLM is an assessment designed for students with the most significant intellectual disabilities for whom general state assessments are not appropriate, even with accommodations. The DLM offers these students a way to show what they know and can do in English language arts, mathematics, and science. The DLM also helps educators and parents set high academic expectations for students with the most significant intellectual disabilities. Results from the DLM are used to inform specialized instruction and meet accountability requirements for reporting student achievement.
- New Jersey DLM Participation Criteria for the 2025-2026 School Year
- Alternate Assessment Eligibility Determination Roadmap - Use the Alternate Assessment Eligibility Determination Roadmap to thoroughly understand and accurately answer each eligibility statement, ensuring informed decision-making.
- FAQ NJ Alternate Assessment Participation
- New Jersey's Alternate Assessment Overview for Families
- Assessments that Support Student Learning-Parent Brochure
- Assessments that Support Student Learning-Parent Brochure (en Español)
- Understanding Your Child’s Individual Student Score Report
- Understanding Your Child’s Individual Student Score Report (en Español)
Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) allows for the use of alternate assessments based on alternate achievement standards for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities. In New Jersey, this alternate assessment is the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM). ESSA requires that no more than 1% of the total number of tested students participate in the DLM assessment. Local Education Agencies (LEAs) are not prohibited from assessing more than 1% of their tested students with the DLM; however, they are required to submit information justifying the need to exceed the 1% limit.
