EL EXAMEN WIDA Y SU INFLUENCIA EN LA TRAYECTORIA EDUCATIVA DE ESTUDIANTES HISPANOS DE NOVENO GRADO EN UNA ESCUELA SECUNDARIA DE NUEVA JERSEY

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the impact of the WIDA ACCESS test on the educational development of Spanish-speaking ninth-grade students in a New Jersey high school. A qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach was employed, based on a semi-structured interview with the vice principal of the educational institution. The academic and socio-emotional information of the sample was evaluated, which facilitated understanding how the test affects aspects such as academic placement, selfesteem, social integration, and access to educational opportunities. The findings indicate that although WIDA is a crucial tool for assessing linguistic progress and guiding pedagogical decisions, it presents limitations related to technical issues, the shortage of certified teachers, and an insufficient cultural contextualization of the test. In conclusion, the impact of the exam goes beyond the merely linguistic, affecting educational equity and school inclusion. Therefore, it is suggested to strengthen teacher professional development, improve implementation processes, and move toward assessments that are more sensitive to the migratory and cultural context of students.