DLM Alternate ELA / Math Assessment FAQ
Learn more about the required English Language Arts (ELA) and math alternate statewide assessments given in Grades 3-8, and 11 below.
The Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) adopted the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) Alternate Assessment as Montana’s statewide alternate assessment for students with significant cognitive disabilities, beginning in Fall 2025 for English language arts, Mathematics, and Science. To support implementation, OPI provided an introductory webinar on June 10, 2025, Introduction to DLM Assessment Webinar (Recording), explaining the DLM assessment model, sharing key preparation resources, and addressing questions from educators. OPI also directed educators to the DLM Montana State Website and additional DLM ELA/Math resources to help educators prepare for training and statewide administration.
Introduction to DLM Assessment Webinar: View the recorded webinar on the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) alternate assessment, which will become the statewide assessment for alternate science, math, and ELA beginning in fall 2025.This webinar was held on June 10, 2025 and includes an overview of the DLM model, provides key resources to help you prepare ahead of fall training, and incorporates questions from attendees.
For more thorough information on the DLM ELA / Math assessment, navigate to the DLM Montana State Website.
Getting to Know the DLM Alternate ELA/Math Assessments for Montana: This platform is designed to provide you with quick, easy access to valuable information and tools to help you succeed.
Background
The DLM Alternate ELA/Math Assessment (DLM ELA/Math) is the ELA and math alternate assessment for students with significant cognitive disabilities provided in place of the statewide MAST Assessment in grades 3-8 and the ACT with Writing test in grade 11. It is used by the state to provide a consistent picture of student proficiency and progress across Montana's public schools and private schools seeking accreditation. The DLM ELA/Math test results, reported in the Individual Student Report (ISR), should be used to identify areas for needed improvement as well as areas of strength so that everyone can work together to help the student(s) learn the knowledge and skills of the grade-level academic content with appropriate supports.
Grade(s): 3-8 and 11
Subject(s): Math and English Language Arts
Test Time
| Subject | Average Duration in Minutes Per Testlet |
|---|---|
| ELA Reading | 10 - 15 |
| ELA Writing | 10 - 15 |
| Mathematics | 5 - 10 |
| Science | 5 - 15 |
Average duration does not include time needed by the test administrator.
Testing Windows
Fall Window: September 14-December 18, 2026
Spring Window: February 1-May 21, 2027 Student Upload Schedule
General Information
These resources include some general information about the assessment that will be helpful in learning about the state required Multi-State Alternate Assessment. Follow the links below to learn more.
Score Reporting
To see how a school is performing over time and compared to other schools in Montana, visit Montana’s Longitudinal Data Warehouse (GEMS).Official state-level results will be released this fall.
DLM / ELA Math Reporting Resources
- DLM ELA/Math Score Report Parent Letter Template- districts can meet ESSA requirements for sharing student score report information with this customizable letter template.