S.C. public schools to skip spring state testing

It’s now official, public schools in South Carolina will not have spring state testing this year.

On Monday, the state Department of Education announced in a news release that the U.S. Department of Education had approved its suspension waiver that was submitted last week in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The suspension of South Carolina’s student assessments will allow educators to focus on meeting the needs of students and relieve undue anxiety faced by parents and students," State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman said. “Our efforts must be concentrated on addressing this unprecedented public health pandemic. I appreciate the U.S. Department of Education recognizing this and swiftly approving our waiver request.”

State tests that will not be administered this spring include SC READY, SCPASS, End-of-Course exams in English, algebra, biology and U.S. history, prekindergarten assessments and alternative assessments, according to the release.

In regards to college entrance exams, college credit and workforce readiness assessments, the state department said it’s working closely with those vendors to explore innovative approaches, such as testing online. These assessments include the SAT, ACT, Advanced Placement and WIN Ready to Work.

“To the extent possible, districts may administer these assessments to students who need them for post-secondary or employment aspirations,” the release said.

The state will continue to pay for these particular assessments, if they are made available.