U.S. History end-of-course subject area test; remove requirement for the administration for purpose of graduation.
Impact
By eliminating the United States History test, the bill modifies Section 37-16-7 of the Mississippi Code, where it formerly served as a determining factor for accountability ratings and graduation eligibility. Proponents argue that this would relieve students and educators from the pressures of testing in non-core academic areas, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of history without the stress of standardized testing.
Summary
House Bill 406 aims to abolish the end-of-course subject area test in United States History for high school graduation requirements in Mississippi. Starting from the 2022-2023 academic year, the only tests mandated for public high school students will be in English II, Algebra I, and Biology. This legislative change is significant as it reflects a shift in educational priorities and assessment methods within the state's education system.
Contention
However, this bill has spurred debate among educators, historians, and policy makers. Critics assert that removing history assessments could diminish students' knowledge of American history and civic education, jeopardizing their understanding of foundational concepts critical to citizenship. Furthermore, questions have arisen about whether this legislative move aligns with national education standards and the necessity for comprehensive historical education in schools.