Join WestEd experts for an insightful webinar to explore how to design supportive, coherent, and effective assessment systems that support positive outcomes for students with disabilities. Learn more about evidence-based strategies and practical tools to ensure assessments are aligned with curricula, standards, and your district goals to drive meaningful learning for all learners.
Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
Time: 12–12:30 p.m. PT
Despite decades of advocacy, students with disabilities often face gaps in educational outcomes. This session will explore systemic approaches to building assessment systems that recognize and support the needs of students with disabilities.
Learn from WestEd experts about fostering a culture of belonging and high expectation for all students, breaking down barriers between general and special education assessment, and promoting effective data practices. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding and practice.
Who Should Attend
- District assessment coordinator
- District special education director
- Superintendent
- Assistant superintendent
- SEA assessment staff
Session Topics
- Foster a culture of belonging and high expectation for students with disabilities
- Dismantle structural barriers that separate assessment in special and general education contexts
- Promote effective data use practices that support learning
- Address assessment systemically and prioritize the needs of students with disabilities
Featured Speakers
Jessica Arnold
Arnold partners with state and local education agencies to enhance teaching and learning. As an expert in educator assessment and data literacy, she leads professional learning and resource development projects that support effective use of assessments to improve student outcomes. Arnold has contributed to national centers for improving outcomes for people with disabilities, including the National Center for Systemic Improvement, the National Center for Educational Outcomes, and the National Deaf Center.
Elizabeth Zagata
Zagata, a former special education teacher and OSEP scholar, is dedicated to enhancing educational outcomes for students with disabilities. Her research centers on literacy, assessment, and special education policy and law. Currently, Zagata leads the Effective Instruction priority areas for the National Center for Systemic Improvement. She holds certifications in special education, elementary education, and gifted education, and she serves as an adjunct faculty member teaching diagnostic assessment and special education law.
Don’t miss out on this exciting conversation—register today!