3-8 Testing Dates Reduced: SED Release and SAANYS Statement

“The voices of parents and educators were heard today as our state assessment system has been adjusted to a more appropriate level for our students. In order to make new standards and assessments workable and worthwhile, we must assure that they are not only educator driven but also implemented in a reasonable manner. Today’s actions are a positive step in righting the ship.” – Kevin Casey, SAANYS Executive Director

SED NEWS RELEASE:

The Board of Regents today announced its decision to reduce the number of days of student testing on the grades 3-8 State assessments in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics from three to two. This change takes effect beginning with the tests that will be administered in Spring 2018 and applies to grades 3-8.

“The Regents have taken a bold step forward today,” said Regents Chancellor Betty A. Rosa. “This decision not only reduces the amount of time children will spend taking tests, but also returns valuable instructional time to our teachers. We will make certain the tests continue to provide a valid and reliable measurement of student achievement.”

“The Regents and I continue to listen to the concerns of parents and teachers and to make additional adjustments to the grades 3-8 exams,” said State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia. “In response to those public concerns, last year we reduced the number of test questions and moved to untimed testing. Today’s decision is another important step in our efforts to deliver a rigorous testing regime that is responsive to the public’s concerns.”

Read the full release here.