TELPAS

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Purpose of TELPAS

  • TELPAS (Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System) is designed to assess the progress that emergent bilingual students make in learning the English language. 
  • It helps schools and teachers track each student’s English language development over time to help ensure students are making progress in English language skills.

What TELPAS Measures

  • TELPAS assesses four key areas, or language domains, that are essential for English proficiency:
    • Listening: Measures how well students understand spoken English.
    • Speaking: Evaluates students’ ability to communicate verbally in English.
    • Reading: Assesses how well students understand written English.
    • Writing: Measures students’ ability to express themselves in writing.
  • These areas are aligned with the Texas English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS), which guide instruction for students learning English.

How TELPAS is Administered

  • Timing: TELPAS is administered yearly in the spring.
  • Format: Students who are in grades K-1 will be graded holistically for listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students who are in grades 2-12 will take two online assessments to determine their language proficiencies. 
  • Who Takes TELPAS: All Emergent Bilingual students from kindergarten through 12th grade take TELPAS to track their English language growth.

How Results Are Used

  • TELPAS results help teachers and schools identify each student’s level of English proficiency and create tailored support plans for further growth.
  • Results are used to meet federal and state requirements under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), ensuring that all Emergent Bilingual students receive the support they need to succeed academically.

Understanding TELPAS Scores

  • Proficiency Levels: TELPAS assigns students a proficiency level for each language domain—beginner, intermediate, advanced, and advanced high.
    • Beginner: Student is just starting to learn English.
    • Intermediate: Student has basic English skills but still needs support.
    • Advanced: Student has strong English skills but may need some academic support.
    • Advanced High: Student is close to fluent and can perform well in academic English settings.
  • Score Reports: Parents have access to a report detailing their child’s proficiency in each language area.  (scroll down for other languages)

How Parents Can Support Their Child

  • Encourage daily reading in English: Provide access to books, magazines, or online resources suitable for your child’s age and English level.
  • Practice conversational English at home: Encourage your child to speak English in various settings, such as while grocery shopping or during family meals.
  • Promote writing activities: Encourage your child to keep a journal, write letters, or create short stories in English.
  • Use educational resources and apps that support English language development in a fun and engaging way.
  • Stay in regular contact with teachers to learn about specific areas where your child may need extra support.

Who to Contact

  • For questions about TELPAS, results, or additional support, please contact:
    • Your child’s teacher: They can provide specific insights into how your child is progressing and areas for growth.
    • The school’s bilingual/ESL coordinator: They can answer questions about TELPAS, explain results, and discuss program options.
    • The Multilingual Education Team via : This team can offer district-level guidance and resources for families.

TELPAS FAQs from TEA: For more detailed information on TELPAS, you can view the Texas Education Agency's . This resource answers common questions about the assessment, scoring, and how TELPAS supports your child’s language learning journey.