With the introduction of the Common Core standards, the number of standardized tests students take nationwide only seem to be going up. Next year, Maryland is putting the brakes on all of the assessing.
According to the State Department of Education, students will take the exams associated with the Common Core — known as the PARCC — into one testing period next year, instead of the two that were opened this year. That will mean students take 1-2 fewer tests, on average.
The move is designed to allow more time in the classroom.
“These changes will help us focus on what’s most important—ensuring that students are learning to think critically and master the skills they will need to graduate, ready for success,” said State Superintendent of School Lillian M. Lowery.
The 2014-15 school year was the state’s first full year of PARCC testing. Leaders reviewed the process, and attributed the reason for the changes to feedback from students, teachers and parents. Students in grades 3-8 and high school take the tests.
