The bill amends the Revised School Code to update the requirements for the Michigan merit examination administered to pupils in grades 11 and 12. It mandates that the examination must include assessments in English language arts, mathematics, reading, science, and social studies, with a writing component included. Notably, the bill allows pupils to opt for the Classic Learning Test (CLT) as an alternative to fulfill the writing requirement. Additionally, it introduces a waiver process for pupils who may choose not to take certain tests, which must be signed by a parent or guardian and submitted by February 28 of the school year in which the test is administered.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of timely feedback on examination results, requiring that scores be returned to students and their guardians before the start of the first semester of grade 12. It also stipulates that the Michigan merit examination must be based on grade-level content expectations and includes provisions for accommodations for students with disabilities. The bill highlights the need for the examination to align with national standards and includes specific requirements for the scoring process, ensuring that contractors meet quality management standards. Lastly, it mandates that the social studies component of the examination includes questions related to genocide education, specifically the Holocaust and the Armenian Genocide.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 380.1279