Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Logo
For Immediate Release
Wednesday, April 5, 2000
Contact:Darrell S. Pressley, 781-338-3126

Commissioner of Education Says Test Rules Are Important, Not Test Form

Malden - After receiving numerous complaints regarding the tone of the Spring 2000 MCAS Test Administrator's Test Security and Ethics Agreement, Commissioner of Education David P. Driscoll today sent a letter to all public school principals, administrators and other school officials informing them the form does not have to be signed.

Commissioner Driscoll stressed that the rules and procedures of test administration stated in all MCAS manuals need to be taken seriously, without exception, so that there are no cases of testing irregularities. And that he has full confidence in teachers and administrators in performing their professional duties during the testing.

Commissioner Driscoll added, "I urge you to be sure that every test administrator is familiar with the rules and has an opportunity to resolve any questions with you before the testing begins. However, the signing of this form by teachers and other test administrators is entirely optional. There is no longer any requirement that this form be signed. The rules speak for themselves and in my view, a signed agreement is unnecessary."

For more information visit the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System website.





Last Updated: April 5, 2000



 
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