South Carolina Alternate Assessment (SC-Alt)

The primary purpose of the SC-Alt is to ensure that students with significant cognitive disabilities have the opportunity to participate in a challenging, standards-based curriculum that encourages high academic expectations. An assessment that provides a measure of student achievement and an opportunity to participate in the state’s education accountability system facilitates this goal.

The spring 2023 SC-Alt administration consists of the following:

●ELA and Mathematics for grades 3–8

●Science for grades 4 and 6

●English, Algebra, Biology, and US History and Constitution for High School

The SC-Alt is designed to be accessible to students with diverse and significant disabilities. First, the test uses picture symbols and stimuli to engage students in the content. Next, the test allows for embedded and non-embedded accommodations which permits students to answer the items using their preferred method of communication (e.g., pointing, eye gaze, assistive technology, oral response, sign language). Students may also use tablet technology, interactive whiteboards, or laptops to make their selections.  There are also multiple types of test items used on the assessment. Additionally, paper tests are available for students whose IEP outlines the need. Finally, there is no time restriction on the assessment at any point. Students who the IEP team determines meet the participation criteria for SC-Alt are participating in a curriculum that does not lead to a high school diploma.  If your child participates in the SC-Alt, you may contact your child’s teachers. For more information, please visit the SC-Alt Portal at sc-alt.portal.cambiumast.com. If you do not have access to a computer or the internet, ask your child’s teachers for assistance in obtaining copies of information about the SC-Alt.