General Discussion

madfloridian

(88,117 posts) Wed Feb 18, 2015, 03:44 PM Feb 2015

Fewer tests in Florida schools, education chief and Rick Scott recommend.

Florida Education Commissioner Pam Stewart has recommended reducing the number of tests public school students are required to take.

The recommendation was part of a testing investigation Gov. Rick Scott requested, in which the governor agreed there was too much testing in Florida schools.

"There is, without a doubt, an excess of testing in Florida schools, and I look forward to working with Gov. Scott and the Legislature to ensure we strike the appropriate balance between accountability and instruction," Stewart said.

Stewart recommended four measures to reduce testing, including suspending various 11th grade tests, eliminating progress monitoring requirements, and eliminating local final exams where there is already a statewide standardized exam.

Below is the full release from the governor's office:

Today, upon completing a testing investigation requested by Governor Rick Scott, Education Commissioner Pam Stewart recommended a reduction in the number of tests Florida students in public schools are required to take.

Governor Rick Scott said, “A quality education prepares students to succeed in college or a career so they can pursue their dreams. It’s important to measure students’ progress and achievements, but we must not lose sight of our goal to provide every student with the very best education. As I have traveled the state, I have heard from parents and teachers that there are too many tests and I agree. I would like to thank Commissioner Stewart for leading an investigation of standardized testing and helping to determine which tests can be eliminated. I look forward to working with the Legislature to implement the Commissioner’s recommendations and reduce the number of tests this year.”

Okay, Florida Democrats, the GOP and Rick Scott are stealing what should be the agenda of Democrats.