By: Sharon Aron Baron
Governor Scott today issued an Executive Order to suspend the 11th grade Florida Standards Assessment for English language arts until the Florida Legislature has an opportunity to consider legislation to eliminate the mandate. The elimination of the test follows an investigation conducted by Commissioner Pam Stewart that recommended a reduction in the number of tests Florida students in public schools are required to take.
Last week Scott said, “As I have traveled the state, I have heard from parents and teachers that there are too many tests and I agree.”
Since students meet their English language arts graduation requirement upon completion of the 10th grade assessment, the 11th grade Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) for English language arts is no longer needed.
While the Governor and Legislature are working together on a comprehensive plan to address over-testing, the Executive Order is necessary to provide immediate relief to eleventh graders.
A copy of the Executive order can be seen here www.flgov.com