A Policy Brief
States are required to test all high school students at least once in each English language arts (ELA), mathematics, and science. The ELA and mathematics results must be used in the state’s school accountability system. Unfortunately, no matter which approach to high school testing states implement, there are always many concerns and complaints. There is no question that the legal requirements for high school testing can run headlong into the practical realities of high schools.
In this brief, we explore these requirements and the three major approaches to high school testing: survey, end-of-course, and college admissions testing. We evaluate the opportunities and challenges associated with each approach and present considerations for Delaware policymakers and education leaders as they weigh these issues.
