This bill proposes the elimination of the high school graduation proficiency test in New Jersey, which is currently mandated for 11th-grade students. The legislation prohibits the State Board of Education from requiring satisfactory performance on any Statewide proficiency test as part of the graduation standards. It amends existing laws to remove references to the proficiency test, including its inclusion in graduation requirements, the necessity for out-of-school youth or adults to pass the test for a State endorsed diploma, and the requirement for school district report cards to include test results. Additionally, it clarifies that participation in the State Seal of Biliteracy program does not necessitate taking the proficiency test.

The bill also repeals sections of law that mandate the administration of the graduation proficiency test and the requirement for the Commissioner of Education to consult with various stakeholders during its development. By removing these provisions, the bill aims to address concerns regarding the effectiveness and fairness of standardized testing as a measure of student readiness for college and careers. The sponsor argues that other metrics, such as grade point averages, are more reliable indicators of future success, and highlights a national trend where many states have moved away from exit testing requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:7C-1, 18A:7C-2, 18A:7C-4, 18A:7C-15, 18A:7E-3, 18A:36C-10