Did ESSA Free Us from the Test?
How ESSA Has Reduced the Emphasis on Standardized Tests
every industry needs a leader
•
empower the leader in you
•
every industry needs a leader • empower the leader in you •
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), signed into law in 2015, significantly altered the landscape of education in the United States. One of its primary goals was to reduce the emphasis on standardised testing, a practice that had drawn criticism for its high-stakes nature and potential to narrow the curriculum.
Shifting the Focus:
Prior to ESSA, the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) had imposed strict accountability measures based solely on standardised test scores. This often led to a "teach to the test" mentality, where teachers focused narrowly on test preparation, potentially neglecting other important aspects of education. ESSA sought to address these concerns by providing states with more flexibility in determining their own accountability systems.
Under ESSA, states are now required to develop their own accountability plans, which must include measures of student academic achievement, such as standardised tests. However, states have more freedom to choose the specific tests they use and the weight given to test scores. This flexibility allows states to better align their assessments with their educational goals and to consider factors beyond test scores, such as student growth, engagement, and college and career readiness.
The Role of Alternate Assessments:
ESSA also expanded the use of alternate assessments for students with significant disabilities who cannot participate in the general education standardised tests. These alternate assessments provide a more accurate measure of student progress and can help ensure that all students have the opportunity to demonstrate their learning.
Addressing Test Anxiety and Bias:
One of the challenges associated with standardised testing is the potential for test anxiety and bias. ESSA encourages states to take steps to address these issues. For example, states can provide students with opportunities to practise taking standardised tests, and they can ensure that the tests are culturally sensitive and do not discriminate against any group of students.
Balancing Accountability and Flexibility:
While ESSA has provided states with more flexibility in their accountability systems, it is important to note that accountability remains a key component of the law. States are still required to demonstrate that their schools are making progress in improving student achievement. This balance between accountability and flexibility is intended to ensure that students receive a high-quality education while also allowing states to tailor their approach to the unique needs of their students and communities.
In conclusion, the Every Student Succeeds Act has had a significant impact on standardised testing in public schools. By shifting the focus away from a narrow reliance on test scores and providing states with more flexibility in their accountability systems, ESSA has helped to create a more balanced and equitable approach to education. While the full impact of these changes may not be apparent for some time, it is clear that ESSA has the potential to improve the quality of education for students across the country.
Information published to or by The Industry Leader will never constitute legal, financial or business advice of any kind, nor should it ever be misconstrued or relied on as such. For individualized support for yourself or your business, we strongly encourage you to seek appropriate counsel.
