Connecticut House Bill HB06422

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/15
• Refer: 1/23/15

Caption

An Act Repealing The Requirement That Students In Grade Eleven Take The Smarter Balanced Assessments.

Impact

The repeal of this requirement could lead to significant changes in the educational landscape. Without the obligation to participate in the Smarter Balanced Assessments, schools may have more freedom to adopt alternative evaluation methods that better align with their educational philosophy or the specific needs and abilities of their student populations. Additionally, this change could potentially alter the way educational success and accountability are measured at the state level, lessening the focus on standardized testing as a primary metric.

Summary

House Bill 06422, introduced by Representatives Ziobron and Kokoruda, aims to repeal the requirement that eleventh-grade students take the Smarter Balanced Assessments. This bill addresses concerns regarding the efficacy and necessity of standardized testing as part of the educational curriculum. By proposing the repeal, the bill suggests a shift in how student performance and educational progress are evaluated. Proponents believe that eliminating this requirement will reduce the pressure on students and provide schools greater flexibility in assessing student performance.

Contention

However, the bill is not without its points of contention. Supporters argue that standardized testing can create stress and does not always accurately reflect a student's abilities or knowledge. Detractors, on the other hand, contend that such assessments are crucial for ensuring educational standards and accountability across schools, particularly in identifying areas where intervention might be necessary. The discussion around HB06422 reflects a broader debate on the role of testing in education and the best ways to evaluate student learning and achievement.