Current federal legislation has shifted the focus of education for students with disabilities from issues of access and opportunity to issues about improving teaching and learning, specifically focusing on students? involvement in the general curriculum. Effective assessment techniques are critical to the educational process in order for the physical educator to accurately identify what students can and cannot do relative to the general curriculum content. In addition, effective assessment tools and techniques provide accountability, clarify student expectations, support a safe learning environment, and assist in developing individual instructional goals. According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), when a student's disability affects participation in physical education, the Individual Education Plan must contain the student's present level of performance in physical education, including how the student's disability affects involvement and progress in the general program. Effective assessments produce data that are valid, reliable, and useful in planning instruction. Many educational agencies are implementing state- and district-wide assessment programs in physical education, including the evaluation of motor skills and/or physical fitness. IDEA mandates that the state or local agency develop guidelines that indicate appropriate accommodations and modifications in the administration of these assessments to ensure the participation of students with disabilities. This article will provide an overview of the history of federal legislation related to assessment in physical education, as well as practical tools teachers can use to ensure effective assessment of students with disabilities in their general physical education program.