A bipartisan group of Colorado lawmakers has introduced a bill aimed at reducing the time spent on standardized testing for students in grades 3-8. The bill, Senate Bill 68, would create a review committee to study and recommend cuts to testing time.
Currently, students in grades 3-8 spend around 8-11 hours per year on Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) math and reading assessments. High school students, on the other hand, spend approximately 3.5 hours on the PSAT and SAT.
Parents, teachers, superintendents, and school board members testified in favor of the bill, citing the need to reduce testing time and find a better balance between assessment and instruction. Kelly Jones-Wagy, a parent and teacher, applauded the lawmakers for approving the bill, stating that it’s not about ending school accountability but about lowering the amount of hours spent on testing.
The bill isn’t about ending school accountability but about lowering the amount of hours spent on testing.
"The bill will now head to the Senate Appropriations Committee. If approved, it will need to pass the full Senate and then the House before it can be sent to the governor’s desk for signature.
The passage of this bill could have significant implications for the education system in Colorado, potentially leading to a reduction in testing time and a shift in focus towards more instruction and student support. As the bill moves forward, it will be important to monitor its progress and consider the potential impacts on students, teachers, and schools.
The advancement of Senate Bill 68 marks a significant step towards reevaluating the role of standardized testing in Colorado’s education system. As the bill moves forward, it’s essential for parents, educators, and lawmakers to continue the conversation about finding a balance between assessment and instruction that truly supports student learning and success.
