Hi everyone! Please take note that ACCESS testing officially begins this Wednesday, January 7th. This is an annual assessment for our students in grades 9–12 who are navigating their education in more than one language. It is a chance for you to demonstrate your growth and progress over the past year.

Rather than testing your knowledge of specific facts in subjects like history or science, this exam focuses on your English Language Proficiency. You will be assessed in four key domains: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. These results are incredibly important because they provide a clear picture of your language development. This data helps both our school and Portland Public Schools district ensure that we are providing you with the exact level of support, specialized resources, and classroom tools you need to succeed across all your high school subjects.

How to Prepare:

• Rest and Recharge: Please make sure to get a good night's sleep on Tuesday and eat a healthy breakfast (free for students on campus). Being well-rested will help you stay focused during the different sections of the test.
• Stay Calm: There is no need to be nervous! This is not a "pass or fail" test. Think of it as a way to show off how much you have learned and how well you can communicate.
• We Are Here to Help: If you have any questions about the schedule or want to understand more about what the test looks like, please reach out to your teachers. They are here to support you and answer any questions you might have.