Assessment Matters: Constructing Model State Systems to Replace Testing Overkill

This FairTest report describes how states can overhaul their assessment systems under the Innovative Assessment pilot program in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).  It shows policymakers how to:

• develop assessment systems that minimize standardized testing;
• enhance classroom-based, teacher-controlled, student-focused assessing;
• diminish state and federal micro-control of education;
• provide tools to markedly improve learning outcomes; and
• generate sufficient data for evaluating schools in order to provide support and interventions where needed.

The report begins by describing the core components of a model assessment system that meets the requirements of ESSA. It then reports on New Hampshire’s Performance Assessment for Competency Education (PACE) project. Part III profiles other examples of high-quality performance assessments. The report concludes with a set of principles for assessment systems.