LEAP hotline readies students for high-stakes tests

Does your child need extra help readying for the upcoming high stakes tests?

The state Department of Education is offering free phone and online services to help prepare students for the statewide tests, which begin in April.

For fourth and eighth graders who recently received Louisiana Educational Assessment Program homework practice tests, a LEAP tutoring hotline has been set up to answer their questions.

Tutors are available weekdays from 5 to 7 p.m. until March 31. Hours may be extended if the call volume shows more support is needed.

The LEAP Hotline number is 1-877-453-2721.

First through eighth graders who want to focus on math skills can try Newton’s Classroom, an online resource offered through the education department’s Web site. Each tutorial is composed of three basic skill and concept levels.

The department’ s PASS-Online resource lets third through 12th graders take online practice tests similar to the LEAP, iLEAP, the Graduation Exit Exam and LEAP Alternate Assessment 2 exams.

Eighth and 10th graders can also use PASS-Online to write a composition and have it scored.

Students must register when they access PASS-Online resources for the first time. They can obtain a password through their school or by calling 1-877-453-2721.

Newton’s Classroom and PASS-Online are accessible by logging on to either www.louisiana-pass.org or www.louisianaschools. net.

The LEAP, iLEAP and GEE exams will be given April 1-3 and April 6-7 in all public schools. Results will be released in May.