EOI testing effects students
After years of using End of Instruction testing as the means of determining standards for graduation, the Oklahoma Department of Education is doing a turn-around by getting rid of it completely.
EOI tests have been used through the years to assess a student’s knowledge on core subjects.
Since these were standardized tests, each student was required to make a certain score before they could fully achieve course requirements in order to graduate.
This means that if one were to make below a passing score, that student would have to take the test again and take a remedial course for that class.
This agenda has been a controversial subject for both students and faculty alike.
Marlow High School counselor Brenda Parker handles the testing curriculum at the High School.
Parker says that there was speculation that the tests were to be terminated, but this was not confirmed until July 1.
Parker also adds that the end of EOI testing will bring a sense of normalcy to the way things are done and taught.
“Not only are tests gone, but remedial classes are as well. Students do not have to take any more remedial classes if they have failed a test,” Parker said. “This new agenda will make it easier for Teachers to actually teach without worrying about testing.”
Although it is phasing out, the current sophomores are still going to be required to pass a test to make up for the EOI.
This test will be called the Suite Assessment, which will consist of Math, English, Science, and History.
Micah Elroy, a sophomore at MHS, is understanding towards this idea, but is also apprehensive towards placing all these requirements on the class of 2019 alone.
“It’s a little nerve-racking that all the pressure of the new assessment is being put on us,” says Elroy. “I am happy for everyone else, but I just wish it could be done a different way.”
Senior Miles Ellis thinks the state should not have implemented EOI testing to begin with.
“I think it is unfair that they made us take them in the first place.” Ellis states. “However, they did prepare me for ACT testing.”
State Legislators will meet during the next session of congress to discuss alternatives for the 2017-2018 state curriculum standards.
They will not know the new standards until as early as January 1 of next year.
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