ISTA Statement: Pause on accountability
02/13/2015

 

The current situation regarding ISTEP length is rooted in a complex mix of events from the past several years – specifically, Indiana’s requirement under federal law to implement a college and career ready assessment aligned with the new standards, as a result of HEA 1427 which voided Common Core. 

 

Over the last week, parents and educators expressed major concerns about the length of the ISTEP and anxiety it has created for students. These concerns lead to the underlying climate of excessive high-stakes testing.

 

Based on the rapid transition to new academic standards and assessments, the A-F accountability system undergoing changes, pending alterations to the teacher evaluation system, a public outcry against testing times and problems with the stress test; technology malfunctions illustrate the need to pause accountability this year. It is a fair, logical and common sense driven approach.

 

Even last August, prior to recent developments, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan clearly indicated that by doing so, it would not put Indiana’s flexibility waiver in jeopardy.

 

ISTA has repeatedly urged Gov. Pence, the State Board of Education and the General Assembly to place a reasonable moratorium on high-stakes consequences.

We are not asking to dodge accountability for our educators and students. We are simply asking for a pause under the current circumstances.

 

ISTA is disappointed that the State Board of Education chose to remove Superintendent Ritz’s agenda item at today’s meeting that would have addressed a needed temporary pause in accountability.

 

The pressure is negatively impacting students, educators and parents. We call on Gov. Pence and his state board members to reconsider support for a pause this year. It is the right thing to do.