The Kansas Board of Education is changing the scoring threshold for state assessment tests.
The new scoring categories are expected to increase the number of students scoring in the top levels. State Education Commissioner Randy Watson stated that the previous scores in Kansas were higher than those in other states. Previously, state test scores known as cut scores fell within four categories. Those categories were limited, basic, effective, and excellent. Under the new standards, the “effective” level will become “proficient,” and “excellent” will now be known as “advanced.” State education officials says there have been Kansas students who score in the second level on state assessments who then achieve an ACT score of 22 or higher, which is above the national average. The State Board voted 7 to 3 in favor of the changes, with the idea that the process would more accurately reflect student abilities.
However, some politicians, including Republican candidate for governor Jeff Colyer say the new scoring scale lower standards through weaker expectations from students.
Kansas students in 3rd through 8th grade and in 10th grade take math and English assessment tests each spring, while 5th, 8th, and 11th graders take science assessments.
