Learning Assistance Program (LAP)

LAP is a state-funded program designed to enhance educational opportunities for students who are not yet meeting academic standards through supplemental academic and nonacademic services. Within Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), LAP services are targeted (tier 2) or intensive (tier 3) supports that are added to accelerate learning and remove barriers that prevent students from benefiting fully from universal instruction. These supplemental supports are most effective when they are matched to need, evidence-based, aligned with universal instruction, and implemented with fidelity.

In 2021, the Washington State Legislature modified the state’s LAP laws under Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 28A.165 through SHB 1208. Starting in September 2025, school boards of directors must budget and expend the appropriations of LAP, under RCW 28A.165.005 through 28A.165.065, using the Washington Integrated Student Supports Protocol, established under RCW 28A.300.139.

For more information on these legislative changes, please refer to the guidance and resources in the accordions below.

Guidance and Resources

Program Design & Implementation, Funding, and Reporting

• Program Guide
• Program FAQs

Completing the LAP Report in EDS

• LAP Report User Guide
• CEDARS manuals and appendices
• Checking LAP data accuracy
• LAP CEDARS codes
• LAP Data Gathering Workbook
• Editable Washington Integrated Student Supports Protocol Self-Assessment
• Editable Washington Integrated Student Supports Protocol Self-Assessment

Calculating Academic Growth

• DIBELS Data System: WA Months of Growth Report guidance document
• i-Ready Diagnostic Scores to meet LAP data reporting guidance
• MAP Growth results guidance
• Considerations for using Renaissance STAR Data for LAP (Updated October 2022)

Washington Integrated Student Supports Protocol

• Bulletin No. 032-25: Requirements and Guidance for Implementation of Substitute House Bill 1208 (2021) 
• Washington Integrated Student Supports Protocol: Essential Practices for Implementing Integrated Student Supports (2017) 
• Washington Integrated Student Supports Protocol Implementation Guidance 
• School Implementation Template (Optional) 
• LEA Implementation Template (Optional) 
• Child Trends Webinar
• Child Trends - Making the Grade: Assessing the Evidence for Integrated Student Supports (2014) 

Laws & Regulations

• Chapter  28A.165 RCW:  Learning Assistance Program
• Chapter  392-162 WAC: Special Service Program—Learning Assistance  
• Chapter  28A.300.139 RCW: Washington Integrated Student Supports Protocol