Connecticut Senate Bill SB00710

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/17
• Refer: 1/25/17

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Bias In State Mastery Examinations.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will have significant implications for how educational assessment is conducted in the state. The adjustments proposed by SB00710 will likely impact existing state laws related to education standards and student evaluations. By emphasizing fairness and diversity in curriculum, the bill aims to address concerns that standardized tests may not adequately reflect a student's capabilities and could adversely affect diverse student populations. This shift may lead to revisions in assessment protocols that prioritize inclusive approaches and comprehensive educational strategies.

Summary

SB00710 is an Act that aims to prohibit bias in state mastery examinations. This bill proposes amendments to Title 10 of the general statutes to ensure that students' overall performance in subject areas is evaluated fairly and reliably relative to grade-appropriate standards. The primary focus of the bill is to prevent the sole reliance on mastery examination results for student promotion or graduation, thereby encouraging a more holistic assessment of student learning and achievement. The bill is introduced by Senator Moore from the 22nd District and seeks to enhance the educational framework within the state, reflecting a commitment to equitable evaluation.

Contention

Despite the bill's positive intentions, there may be points of contention surrounding its implementation. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the practicality of developing alternative assessment methods that are both valid and fair. Furthermore, opposition could arise from those who believe that standardized testing is a critical component of educational accountability and provides measurable benchmarks for student performance. Balancing the need for reliable assessment with the desire to foster a more inclusive and comprehensive educational environment is likely to be a key topic of debate as the bill progresses.