Session: State Capitol, Room 125 Juneau, AK 99801-1182 Phone: (907) 465-6600 Fax: (907) 465-3805 Interim: 600 E. Railroad Ave. Wasilla, AK 99654-7035 Phone: (907) 376-3370 Fax: (907) 376-3157

HESS Unveils New Plan for
High School Essential Skills Exam

(JUNEAU) - Proposed legislation discussed during the Senate Health, Education and Social Services Committee (HESS) hearing today would maintain the intent of the state high school competency exam while fine-tuning the program to better meet the needs of Alaska's students. The exam will continue to be administered and the emphasis on standards and accountability remain in place for school districts, schools, teachers, parents and students.

"When the Legislature put the exam in place in 1997, it was definitely a step in the right direction," said Sen. Lyda Green (R-Matanuska-Susitna), chair of the Health, Education and Social Services Committee. "We voted on legislation approving the creation of an exam to ensure that students had mastery over basic reading, writing and math skills before receiving a diploma. We anticipated the creation of an exam to measure what our students were required to study and learn according to Alaska Statute and local requirements."

Since the exam was first administered in the spring of 2000, many people have questioned if the exam covered the required courses and whether students with special needs had been give adequate consideration. Green said the effort to thoroughly discuss the exit exam issue in committee has served the HESS committee well by creating an opportunity for good discussion providing for input from many interested parties.

"Senator Ward and Senator Leman and I have all responded to what we have heard in committee by putting forward plans that respond to the concerns over the competency exam raised by students, parents, teachers and school administrators around the state," said Green. "Senator Wilken agrees that the exit exam issue is probably the most important of this legislative year."

Governor Tony Knowles and the Department of Education and Early Development have called for a delay of the exam requirement until 2006, and others have suggested a shorter delay or asked to keep the exam requirement on schedule.

"The Senate HESS Committee has worked hard to develop legislation which takes the best from each of these efforts and we intend to introduce this legislation next week," said Green.

Students graduating in 2002 and 2003 will still take the High School Graduation Qualifying Exam (HSGQE) under the new system. Passing scores for each section will be noted on their transcripts and diplomas. Provisions will also be made for those students with learning disabilities who will, with the approval of the IEP team, take the HSGQE or an alternative assessment.

Beginning with the class of 2004, students will have to pass a revised exam, the High School Essential Skills Exam (HSESE), to receive a diploma. This exam will focus on the essential skills and knowledge that students need to have or know in order to function in society. Students with disabilities who receive instruction under an individualized education program or through an education plan will receive a diploma by passing the HSESE or by an alternative assessment requirement as expressly described in their individual education plan.

"These modest changes address the most pressing concerns we've heard and hopefully will lead to a workable solution," said Green. "I think this plan retains the best elements of the HSGQE while allowing accommodations for students with special needs."

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Attachments:

• Sponsor Statement for sb133
  
• High School Graduation Qualifying Exam Proposed Draft Legislation., 03-08-01
  
• Print Friendly Version
  requires Adobe Acrobat Reader - 2 page(s) - 115 K

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