Skip to main content

SDLA Compliance Resource

Administer All Three CAA for Science Embedded Performance Tasks

An instruction-connected yearlong sequence for eligible students whose IEPs assign the California Alternate Assessment for Science.

  • CAA
  • Science
  • Special Education
Date(s)September 15, 2026, through the last day of school or June 30, 2027, whichever comes first
Applies toEligible pupils in tested science grades whose active IEP assigns the CAA for Science

In Plain Language: Plan all three embedded performance tasks around related science instruction, use the assigned form, trained examiner, and pupil’s established access/communication supports, and track completion across the year.

Why this matters

This is not a spring-only test. Waiting until year-end disconnects tasks from instruction and increases the risk that a transfer, absence, or unfinished task prevents completion.

Primary ownership

Primary owner: special education/case manager with LEA CAASPP coordinator. Partners: science teacher, trained test examiner, site coordinator, IEP team, AAC/AT staff, technology, student, and parent.

Operational workflow

  1. 1. Reconcile eligible roster, grade, active IEP, TOMS assignment, and assigned form.
  2. 2. Map the three tasks to the pupil’s science instructional sequence.
  3. 3. Verify examiner tutorial/certificate, security forms, technology, materials, and access supports.
  4. 4. Administer each task promptly after instruction and record completion.
  5. 5. Monitor transfers, incidents, and remaining tasks through final closeout.

Implementation pathway

IEP/roster
Form and training
Instruction
Task 1–3
Completion/incident closeout

Evidence to retain

  • Active IEP and roster
  • Form assignment
  • Examiner certification/security
  • Instruction/task schedule
  • Completion and incident records

Official guidance and help

Source review completed August 30, 2026. Verify current California requirements, CAASPP and ELPAC manuals, live system status, local policy, pupil records, and final system state before acting.