The preLAS is an English language proficiency screening tool used to assess the language development of young learners entering Kindergarten who are potential English Learners (ELs) / Multilingual Learners (MLs). It helps determine a child's proficiency in English to support appropriate placement and instruction.

The preLAS evaluates foundational language skills in the following areas:

Listening Comprehension
Speaking
Pre-literacy and Emergent Literacy Skills (optional)

This interactive, age-appropriate assessment is designed to capture a young learner’s oral language development and early academic language readiness in a comfortable, engaging format.

Purpose of the preLAS

• Identify children who may need EL/ML support services

• Inform instruction and placement in early childhood programs

• Establish a baseline for monitoring English language development over time

The preLAS is typically administered during the registration process for Kindergarten students when the Home Language Survey indicates a language other than English is spoken at home. If a kindergartner registers after January 1st of the school year, the LAS Link Placement Test K-1 should be administered. 

Identification Criteria

To be identified as an EL/ML, the student must score a 1, 2 or 3 Oral Language proficiency level. Students who score a 4 or 5 Oral Language proficiency level are not identified as EL/ML.

Parent Notification

Parents/guardians are notified in writing of the test results and the student's EL/ML eligibility status. If eligible, the notification includes:

• A description of the EL/ML program or services available