The bill amends the State School Aid Act of 1979, specifically section 104b, to update the requirements for the Michigan merit examination administered to high school students. It mandates that districts must administer the examination to 11th graders and 12th graders who did not take it in 11th grade. The examination will include a college entrance test, a work skills test, and the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP). Notably, beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, students will have the option to waive the work skills test through a process that requires parental consent and submission to the school district. The bill also emphasizes the importance of providing detailed performance reports to parents and teachers, ensuring that the examination meets quality management standards, and includes specific deadlines for the assessment process.

Additionally, the bill introduces several insertions to enhance the examination's structure and reporting. It specifies that the Michigan merit examination must be based on state content standards and includes provisions for accommodations for students with disabilities. The superintendent is tasked with ensuring that the examination is both reliable and valid while minimizing the total time required for administration. Furthermore, the bill allows students from nonpublic or home schools to participate in the examination and requires that their scores be reported separately. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the assessment process, ensure alignment with educational standards, and provide meaningful feedback to support student achievement.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (S-3): 388.1704
Senate Introduced Bill: 388.1704
As Passed by the Senate: 388.1704