Michigan students have been taking the same standardized test for decades. It’s known as the MEAP.
But this year the MEAP test will be completely re-done and students will take it in the spring instead of the fall. After next year, it’s not clear what test students will take.
The state was all set to switch over from the MEAP to a test called “Smarter Balanced.” But state lawmakers balked at the idea, because the test aligned to the controversial common core standards.
Lawmakers wanted the state to stick with the MEAP.
But Bill DiSessa from the Michigan Department of Education says that's complicated.
“We informed the legislature earlier that we’re not able to generate an entire new MEAP assessment in less than a year without jeopardizing our new federal waiver. So we’re seeing what can be done to make all of this work,” DiSessa said.
Federal money goes to states with test standards the feds consider “college and career ready.” The state is now looking to tweak the MEAP test so it meets the feds' requirements.
For the 2015-16 school year, the state will have another new test.
“I suppose everything is open. And so we’re looking for constructive feedback, criticism moving forward on what to and what not to do with the assessment,” DiSessa said.
MDE will take written comments through August 5. It will host a public hearing in Lansing next Wednesday, July 30. Find more information about how to weigh in here.
The feedback will help shape the guidelines for the new test.
