Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF-Sag Harbor) announced that he helped pass legislation that addresses concerns of parents and teachers over testing and evaluations, and also increases funding to nonpublic schools (A.8323).

“We’ve heard parents and teachers loud and clear – it’s time to get the focus back on learning rather than testing,” said Assemblyman Thiele. “That’s why we’re making changes to our education system that will help our kids get the most out of their time in the classroom.”

The legislation passed by the Assembly will help teachers better prepare students for certain standardized exams. The State Education Department will now be able to release significantly more past test questions and answers. Also, teachers, principals and superintendents will no longer be required to enter into confidentiality agreements preventing them from discussing the contents of these exams after the exams have been publicly released.

Improving teacher evaluations and student assessments

The Assembly’s legislation would also improve teacher evaluations and student assessments by:

• creating a content review committee to review standardized tests in grades 3 through 8 in English language arts and math to ensure these tests are fair, accurate and appropriate for each grade level; and
• taking into account factors such as poverty, English Language Learner (ELL) status, students with disabilities and prior academic history when measuring student growth under the new teacher evaluation system.

Investing in nonpublic schools

The Assembly’s legislation includes a significant investment in nonpublic schools. This $250 million will be used to reimburse private and parochial schools for the costs of performing mandated services. Thiele noted that nonpublic schools are an important part of providing every family with a range of educational choices for their children.

“Education is a top priority, and we’re always listening to those who are on the front lines – our parents and teachers – in an effort to make improvements and do what’s best for all students,” said Thiele.