Participation rate high for state tests in grades 3 through 8 | Office of the Superintendent

Washington schools met the required 95 percent participation rate on this spring’s new Smarter Balanced tests in grades 3 through 8, according to preliminary results released today by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The rate was considerably lower for the 11th grade.

July 10, 2015 6:06 pm

Washington schools met the required 95 percent participation rate on this spring’s new Smarter Balanced tests in grades 3 through 8, according to preliminary results released today by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The rate was considerably lower for the 11th grade.

States and individual districts and schools are required by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to reach 95 percent participation on state tests as one way to help ensure schools are meeting the needs of all students.

“I’m proud of the students who participated in the new tests this year,” State Superintendent Randy Dorn said. “Trying something new isn’t easy. My hope is that now that we’ve seen the new tests in action, more students will participate next year, especially in 11th grade. Eleventh graders who score a 3 or 4 on the tests are considered ready for college credit-bearing coursework, and may avoid placement tests once they get into college.”

Preliminary test refusal numbers are based on data reported to OSPI by districts. Data collection methods vary by district. Final refusal numbers may be different for some districts and will be reported with final score results during OSPI’s press conference on August 17.

What are the consequences?

Academic: When a large number of students do not take state tests, drawing statewide conclusions about student learning is difficult. It is also difficult to know which schools are struggling, because accurate comparisons cannot be made for schools with large refusal rates.

Accountability: Last week, OSPI released higher-than-expected preliminary Smarter Balanced test results. Test refusals, recorded as “0”s, must be factored into a school’s accountability ratings for Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and Washington State Achievement Index.

Monetary: The U.S. Department of Education could place Washington on “high-risk status” and withhold federal funds. The feds have not yet indicated what, if any, actions they will take.

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