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of 2019 and 2020 which would seem a dents need to take a test in 11th grade, HSPA. Another option would be to pro-
prudent course of action given that there I believe the data stated above demon- vide resources to districts which would
is no way students in the current class of strate that PARCC (or, NJSLA) assess- allow students to take either the SAT or
2019 could take a test in eleventh grade ments should not be used to determine ACT. This would have the added benefit
as the law mandates they do if they whether or not a student receives a of ensuring all graduates have taken a
haven’t already. Looking beyond the diploma. One alternative would be to test many colleges require as part of the
class of 2020, if the law persists and stu- design a new 11th grade test, similar to application process.

References
Gewertz, C. (2018) “Which States Require an Exam to Graduate?” Education Week, 36 (21).
Hespe, D. (2015) NJDOE Broadcast: September 9, 2015. Re: Graduation Requirements for the Class of 2019.
Kohn, A. (2000) The Case Against Standardized Testing: Raising the Scores, Ruining the Schools. Portsmouth
(NH): Heinemann.
Yaple, M. (2018) Increase in High School Graduation Rate Reflected in New District- and State-Level School Performance
Reports.

About the Author
Sean Devine is the Director of Secondary Education for the School District of the Chathams. He is a
graduate of NJ Excel and has 24 years of experience in public education.

New Jersey Leadership

Academy 2019-20
Series 6 Coming Soon!

What is NJLA?
• NJLA participants engage in three high-quality, sustained, collaborative professional learning
sessions that leaders can apply immediately to their practice.
• Series 6 topics will be selected based on educational priorities and presented by current district
or school-based practitioners with expertise in the content

• Content connects actionable steps to the core attributes within the Professional Standards
for Educational Leaders (PSEL) and the Teacher Leader Model Standards to strengthen
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• Ten cohorts will be offered for NJLA 6 at FEA and several off-site venues throughout the state
so that you can find the time and location that works best for you and your leadership team.

To learn more, contact Donna McInerney at (609) 860-1200 or dmcinerney@njpsa.org.

Educational Viewpoints -62- Spring 2019