Texas rethinking its testing, curriculum standards
Apr 12, 2013, 6:41 PM
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) – Texas has been a national leader in using tough curriculums and standardized tests to hold schools accountable.
Now, though, the state is preparing to step back from some of those policies. And several other states are considering similar moves.
Texas lawmakers say they fear youngsters are being forced to take too many high-stakes tests and that some may drop out because of unreasonable expectations.
The Texas House has approved an overhaul that cuts the number of standardized tests in high school from 15 to five. The state would also create a base  diploma that doesn’t require Algebra II or high-level math and science courses.
But some worry about overcorrection, fearful that making school too easy will leave students ill-prepared for the modern workforce.
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