State opens survey about getting rid of standardized tests this year

ATLANTA — Your children might not have to take standardized tests again this year because of the pandemic.

Georgia is opening a public survey about high-stakes testing. It’s the first step in seeking permission to waive the exams again.

The U.S. Department of Education waived the requirement for milestones tests last spring.

Georgia wants to offer “low” stakes testing this year to identify children who are falling behind.

A bill was introduced earlier this year to the General Assembly to reduce the number of standardized tests children have to take.

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That was before they were canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Gov. Brian Kemp said at that time, Georgia tests more than any other state, and that only hurts the children.

“On test days, it’s making students physically sick because they’re worried they will not do well,” Kemp said. “And that is simply unacceptable in our state.”

Kemp said he hoped reducing testing will allow teachers to focus on teaching rather than preparing for exams.

To take the survey, CLICK HERE.

Fulton County students to have two options for when students go back to school in the fall Whichever parents choose, it will be a semester long decision for their student.

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