What is OLPA Testing? The Optional Local Purpose Assessment (OLPA) is available in mathematics for students in grades 3 - 8. It provides a risk-free environment for students to familiarize themselves with online testing and provides teachers with information to target instruction before the mathematics test (MCA - Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment) test used for accountability in the spring. Every time a student answers a question, her or his response helps determine the next question that the student must answer. This testing method provides a more precise measure of students' skills and knowledge. Students are able to pause at any point in the test and resume the test later within the testing window. | 
