The Florida Department of Education has announced plans to review the state’s standardized testing. The move comes after a year of criticism for testing policies, and continued opposition to new learning standards.
This Spring Florida students will face a new statewide exam that replaces the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test. Students will take end-of-course exams in every grade and most subjects.
“I believe you should have accountability," Senate President Andy Gardiner recently told reporters." I think there should be testing. I think the jury is still out on overtesting.”
Some school districts have passed resolutions against standardized testing and some parent groups are pushing for the chance to opt their children out of some exams. The department of education says its review of standardized testing is meant to show parents how the tests are used, and to find quote “deregulation opportunities for the school system.”
Florida Department of Education Commissioner Pam Stewart says there are no plans to pause the end-of-course exams or the Florida Standards Assessment, which will start in the Spring.
During his campaign, Governor Rick Scott promised a review on standardized testing.
DOE is accepting applications for its review committee. The department says the committee will have its first meeting in March.
