The bill amends the Michigan Merit Examination requirements for public school districts to receive state aid. It mandates that districts administer the Michigan Merit Examination to 11th-grade students and to 12th graders who did not take it in 11th grade. The examination will include a college entrance test, work skills test, and the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP). The Department of Technology, Management, and Budget is tasked with contracting providers to develop, supply, and score the examination, ensuring it aligns with state content standards and meets federal education requirements. Additionally, starting in the 2026-2027 school year, students may opt out of the work skills test through a waiver process.

The bill also outlines specific requirements for the examination's administration, scoring, and reporting. It mandates that each student receives an individual report detailing their performance, and it establishes penalties for contractors who fail to meet deadlines. Furthermore, it requires that the examination be designed to assess students' knowledge in English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, while providing accommodations for students with disabilities. The bill emphasizes the importance of the examination in improving academic achievement and establishing a statewide standard of competency, and it allows home-schooled and nonpublic school students to participate in the examination.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 388.1704
House Introduced Bill: 388.1704
As Passed by the House: 388.1704
House Concurred Bill: 388.1704
Public Act: 388.1704
House Enrolled Bill: 388.1704