The ACLU of RI is again working with student and education groups to stop high-stakes testing from keeping otherwise qualified students from graduating. In 2014, Rhode Island is scheduled to begin using standardized testing as a zero-sum graduation requirement. Civil rights and advocacy groups have noted such a test would prevent approximately 90% or more of special education, limited English proficient, economically disadvantaged, Latino or African-American students from graduation.  This legislation does not bar the use of standardized testing, but requires such tests be used only for their intended purpose of identifying struggling students and districts in order to provide intervention.  The ACLU of RI testified in support of this critical legislation before the House committee on Health, Education and Welfare in February; test your skills with some of the questions from the NECAP test here.

 

Sponsors

Representative Eileen Naughton and Senator Harold Metts

Session

2013

Bill number

Position

Support