The bill amends the Michigan Revised School Code to update the administration and requirements of the Michigan merit examination for high school students. It mandates that school districts and public school academies administer the examination to 11th graders and to 12th graders who did not take it in 11th grade. The examination will include assessments in English language arts, mathematics, reading, science, and social studies, with a writing component. Notably, starting in the 2025-2026 school year, students may opt out of certain tests through a waiver developed by the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget, which must be provided to students and their parents by January 1 of the testing year.

Additionally, the bill outlines requirements for the scoring and reporting of the examination results, ensuring that individual reports are provided to parents or legal guardians and teachers. It emphasizes the need for quality management standards in the assessment process and mandates that accommodations be made for students with disabilities. The bill also includes provisions for nonpublic and home-schooled students to take the examination and requires that the social studies component include questions related to genocide education. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the assessment process and ensure that it aligns with educational standards while providing flexibility for students and their families.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (S-3): 380.1279
Senate Introduced Bill: 380.1279