FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
News from AFT Michigan
August 20, 2015
AFT Michigan: Changes to Testing Requirements a Positive Step
Changes allow for more classroom instruction; less time on testing
DETROIT — AFT Michigan and its members believe that today’s announcement by the Michigan Department of Education regarding reduction of M-STEP and MME assessment is a step in the right direction. The announcement made today will reduce the time spent on standardized testing and give students more time for classroom instruction.
Testing for students in elementary and middle school will be cut by 2.5 hours and 11th grade students will see an eight hour reduction in testing time. Additionally, assessments will be provided in shorter portions, so students will not need to take the entire test at one time.
“AFT Michigan members and parents across the state have been calling for changes to rigid high-stakes testing for years. Today’s announced changes will lead to more classroom learning and allow Michigan’s teachers to do what they do best – teach our children,” said David Hecker, president of AFT Michigan. “These changes are a step in the right direction and the members of AFT Michigan look forward to continuing the much needed conversation of increasing classroom teaching time while reducing the time spent on standardized testing.”
We thank State Superintendent Brian Whiston and the Michigan Board of Education for responding to educators, parents, and students.
